husbands returns accepted, wifes returns rejected for SSN

[17704912107]

I received the following rejection message when trying to e-file my wife's federal and state returns: spouse ssn in return must not be the same as primary ssn on another return filed for the same tax year. Both of my returns, federal and state, have already been accepted. I have carefully checked all forms for correct entries of ssn numbers and not found any errors. We both have only one state and residence income for last year. Last year, however, we filed married filing separately, as it was less of a tax bite. This year, we are filing married filing jointly as the new tax laws are much better for us. I'm retired, but my wife still works. I think I read that TT perhaps carries this info over incorrectly into this year? Do I need to wait until the 1040X comes out to amend my return so that hers can be accepted? (I am getting neither federal or state refunds this year) If someone can help, I would be most appreciative, Thanks so much!

[xmasbaby0]

What do you mean by "hers?'   If you are filing a joint return there are not two tax returns.  Everything goes on ONE tax return for both spouses.   So it sounds like you got confused about how to prepare a joint return.   You will have to wait for the return you filed to be fully processed and then amend it to include all of your spouse's income and information.

The 1040X becomes available in late February.  Wait until your return has been fully processed and then amend.

When you enter the primary spouse’s information in My Info, you have to answer the question "Were you married?"  If you click the button for Married, then a drop down will appear that asks, "Do you want to file this return together with your spouse?"  Then you choose YES to file a joint return.  You enter your spouse's information into My Info.  Whenever you are entering income information there should then be a spot for you and for your spouse's income information.  WATCH for the names as you enter income on the screens.  Or when you click to add income it will prompt you to choose which spouse had the income.

When you prepare a joint return you include all the information for both spouses on the SAME tax return.  Include all of your personal information, all of your income from every source, all dependents (if any), all credits and deductions for both of you.  You get ONE refund with both names on it.

And…keep a record of how to access the “old” account for your spouse in case a need comes up to print it or find information from it.  TT will save it online for seven years,

[VolvoGirl]

A Joint return is only one return for the both of you combined.   So she doesn’t file her own return from her account.   Did you add her info and income to the Joint return?   If not then you will have to amend it later after the IRS is done processing your return.  

[17704912107]

Thanks for the quick reply! It makes so much sense. What a relief! Now I'm anxious for the 1040X to be released so that my real work can begin! I will update you on my results!