What should I do for my rejected efile return because I claimed my kid as a dependent, but she forgot to check the "Someone can claim you...dependent" box on her return?

[MyTaxQ1]

My daughter is 16, and she worked part-time after school last year. She efiled her tax return but forgot to check the "someone can claim you as a dependent" box. When I efiled my Federal and State returns yesterday claiming her as my dependent. They were rejected (IND-517-01). I want to keep her as my dependent. What should I do now? Should she amend her return and check the box and file (or efile) again? Then, what should I do with my return? Thanks.

[Rainman12 · Accepted solution]

1) She must prepare and mail in an amendment which states she Can be claimed as a dependent.

2) After her amended return is accepted, Then you can prepare and mail your return claiming her. 

Neither one of you can e-file to clear things up.

[MyTaxQ1]

Thank you very much for your answer. Her efiled returns had already been accepted. If she mails in her amendment tomorrow, about how long will it take for it to be accepted? Since it may take some time, then should I file an extension for my rejected efiled returns now? Or, should I just ignore the rejection for now, then mail in the same returns in prints after her amendment is accepted? Will they be considered as late filing? Sorry for all these questions. Thank you.

[Rainman12]

Takes up to six weeks to process an amendment, since all work must be done by hand. Easiest course of action is to have her do her amendment Now, mail it in, and then you mail in your original return claiming her - at least a month from now. There is No point trying to file an extension for your return now - not accepted after 15 April. However, if you know you'll owe, you can make a payment on-line at IRS.gov; click on 'Pay'. While you're visiting IRS.gov, consider setting up an account there to track your returns/payments via their automated system. And don't be in a hurry to print your return for mailing; you might get a late 1099 or K-1 in the next few weeks ...

[MyTaxQ1]

Thank you so much again. This is very helpful. I do not owe but will receive a refund. So, in this case, I'll be considered as filing late then (even though I did efile on time, but rejected). Will there be a penalty for late filing? Lastly, will IRS notify my daughter or should she check on IRS.gov herself whether her amendment is accepted or not? Thank you very much!

[Rainman12]

No penalty for mailing return late if getting refund. Yes, daughter should track amendment at IRS.gov. Link: <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-return">https://www.irs.gov/filing/wheres-my-amended-re...>

[MyTaxQ1]

Thank you very much! You're wonderful! I was very stressed over this. Now, I feel much better. I appreciate your help very much! Thank you again.

[Rainman12]

You're quite welcome!