Why can't you E-File taxes if your W2 wages are 0?

[Abbie6]

I received a 1099-R for my pension and a W2 with only the HSA contribution from my previous employer in box 12.  Last year I was unable to E-file my taxes because box 1 (wages) of my W2 were 0.  Due to COVID, my taxes sat at the IRS office for 5 months!  I am in the same situation this year and want to know if there is any way to E-file  if you have a W2 with 0 wages? 

[NashayLO]

Your tax return can not be e-filed because you don't have any taxable income. It will need to be mailed in, if you need to prepare a tax return, When a tax return can't be e-filed no matter what ...

[TAXBOGGYMAN]

THIS IS MY FIRST YEAR USING TURBO TAX. I HAVE A SIMILAR QUESTION. I AM RETIRED AND GET A W2 FROM MY PREVIOUS EMPLOYER FOR MEDICAL BENEFITS ONLY - ONLY ENTRY IS BOX 12 DD WITH COST OF RETIRED BENEFITS PROVIDED. I HAVE OTHER INCOME IN FORM OF 1099-R's. TURBO TAX IS SAYING I CANNOT E-FILE. IN THE PAST, I E-FILED WITH TAX SLAYER. 

[Vanessa A]

Do you have other income you need to report or are you just filing because you received this W2?  If you have other income you need to report then you can enter $1 for box 1 of your W2 so you can e-file. 

[TAXBOGGYMAN]

Hi Vanessa 

Yes, I have other 1099-R income to report. I considered the solution you proposed; however, I have alway approached filing using a rule "enter it like you see it". You being an expert, you feel it would be acceptable to the IRS for me to add the $ 1 to Box 1. The 1$ is insignificant compared to the hassle of paper filing.

I am sure that I am not the only person facing this question. Do you think Turbo Tax will get approval from IRS to change the rule set in the application?

[Vanessa A]

The $1 entry has been the work around to many issues with $0 filing.  

That I cannot answer, things are changing and updating all the time.