pro tip: if you cant get through on the phone, try reaching out to them on Twitter. Sometimes their social media team can help or at least escalate your issue.

I had this exact same issue last year! The FTB system automatically generates these notices even when the waiver should apply. Since you incorporated in March 2022, you're definitely eligible for the initial year minimum tax waiver. When I called, they fixed it immediately once I explained the situation - turns out their computer system hadn't properly flagged my S-Corp status. Make sure to mention your incorporation date and that you filed your S-Corp election on time. Also, if you get pushback, ask to speak to a supervisor. The regular reps sometimes don't know about the waiver rules.

am i the only 1 who thinks the whole tax system needs a complete overhaul? 🤔 its 2023 and were still dealing with this nonsense

I actually went through something similar a few months ago! First thing - definitely don't ignore it like others said. I called the FTB customer service line (be prepared to wait though) and it turned out there was a mix-up in their system. They had me confused with someone who had a similar SSN. The rep was actually pretty helpful once I got through. They asked me to verify some basic info and then cleared it up on the spot. Just make sure you have your last tax return handy when you call - they'll want to reference it to confirm your identity and income details. If calling doesn't work out, you can also respond to the letter in writing explaining that you believe there's been an error. Include a copy of your tax return and any other relevant docs. Sometimes written responses get processed faster than phone calls, depending on how busy they are.

I feel for you! I made a similar mistake about 3 years ago and remember that sinking feeling when I realized what I'd done. The good news is that this is absolutely fixable, and the IRS has seen this before. Here's what worked for me: I called the IRS first (yes, the wait was brutal, but it was worth it to get guidance directly from them), then filed amended returns for both personal and business. The agent I spoke with was actually really understanding and walked me through exactly what forms I needed. The whole process took about 5-6 months to fully resolve, but I didn't face any penalties since it was clearly an honest mistake and I was proactive about fixing it. Just make sure to keep copies of everything and follow up if you don't hear back within their stated timeframes. You're going to get through this! 🙂

Don't worry, you're definitely not the first person to make this mistake! I actually had a client who did something very similar last year. The IRS is generally pretty understanding about honest errors like this, especially when you're upfront about it. Here's my advice: when you call tomorrow, explain exactly what happened and ask them to walk you through the correction process. They might be able to transfer the payment internally, or you might need to file amended returns. Either way, make sure to get the agent's name and any reference numbers they give you. Also, consider setting up a simple system to avoid this in the future - maybe use different colored folders or separate bank accounts for personal vs business tax payments. You've got this handled! 👍

I've been dealing with the FTB for my small business and can confirm that their system is absolutely brutal. One thing that helped me was using their "Practitioner Priority Line" - even though I'm not technically a tax pro, I mentioned I was calling on behalf of my business and they transferred me there. The wait was still long but way shorter than the regular line. Also, if you're having payment processing issues specifically, try reaching out to their "Electronic Funds Transfer" department directly - they handle payment problems and seem to have shorter queues. The number is buried on their website but it's worth hunting for. Hang in there @Amara, we've all been in this frustrating boat! 🚢

As someone who just went through this exact nightmare last week, I feel your pain! Here's what finally worked for me: I used the callback feature instead of staying on hold (if you press 1 when they give you the option, they'll call you back and hold your place in line). It saved me from listening to that awful hold music for hours 😅 Also, I discovered that if you call their "Tax Help Line" instead of the main number, sometimes the wait is shorter - it's technically for tax questions but they can transfer you to payments if needed. The number is 1-800-852-5711. One more tip: if you have a smartphone, download an app that can redial automatically - I used one called "Auto Redial" and set it to keep trying every 30 seconds until I got through. It's tedious but way better than manually redialing all day. Good luck, and don't give up! The representatives are actually really helpful once you finally reach them 💪

I'm dealing with this exact same issue right now! Been trying to log into my LLC account for the past 10 days and keep getting that same frustrating "information doesn't match records" error. This thread has been absolutely invaluable - I had no idea there were so many potential causes and solutions! I'm definitely going to start with the EIN vs SSN approach since that seems to have worked for so many people here. I've been using my SSN this whole time and never thought FTB might want the business tax ID instead for LLC accounts. Also going to double-check that I'm entering my business name exactly as it appears on my original filing documents - probably without "LLC" at the end knowing how finicky their system is. The timing and browser clearing tips are brilliant too. I've been trying to call during peak hours like an idiot - no wonder I can't get through! Planning to clear all my browser data and try calling first thing tomorrow morning. It's honestly mind-boggling how many people are experiencing this exact same issue right now. Really makes you wonder if they pushed some kind of system update that broke a bunch of accounts. I was able to log in just fine a couple months ago and nothing has changed on my end. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and solutions - it's so reassuring to know this nightmare is actually solvable with the right combination of workarounds. Will definitely report back if I find the magic formula that works! 🤞

I'm dealing with this exact same nightmare right now! Been locked out of my business account for about 2 weeks and that "information doesn't match records" error is so vague and unhelpful. Reading through all these responses has been incredibly enlightening though - I had no idea there were so many different potential causes! I'm definitely going to try the EIN vs SSN approach first since that seems to be the most successful solution based on everyone's experiences. I've been using my SSN this whole time and never considered they might want the business tax ID for LLC accounts. Also going to make sure I'm entering my business name exactly as it appears on my Articles of Organization - probably without "LLC" at the end knowing how picky their system can be. The browser clearing and early morning calling tips are really smart too. I've been trying during lunch hours when their system is probably getting hammered by everyone else having the same issues! It's honestly both maddening and reassuring to see how widespread this problem is right now. Makes me wonder if they pushed some kind of system update that broke a bunch of accounts recently. I was able to access my account just fine a few months ago and nothing has changed on my end. Thanks everyone for sharing your solutions and experiences - this community is amazing for helping each other navigate FTB's bureaucratic maze! Will definitely update this thread if I find the magic combination that works 🤞