Can't E-File 2024 Return - Need My 2023 AGI But Didn't File Last Year

Don't worry, this happens more often than you'd think, doesn't it? When you didn't file last year, the IRS actually wants you to use $0 as your prior year AGI. Have you double-checked that you're entering exactly zero and not '0.00' or leaving it blank? Sometimes the software can be picky about the format. Also, have you tried filing through a different software to see if maybe it's just an issue with the one you're using?

I'm not entirely sure, but I think you might need to contact the IRS directly? It seems like the system isn't accepting the $0 entry for some reason. You might want to try calling them soon, as wait times get increasingly worse the closer we get to the deadline. Have you considered filing by paper instead of e-filing? That might be a safer option at this point, though it will delay your processing time.

This is just like when I tried getting my stimulus payment and kept hitting dead ends with the IRS! I finally used Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) to get through to an actual IRS agent after trying for days on my own. It was worth every penny because the agent confirmed I should use $0, but there was a technical issue they had to note on my account. Much better than paying your accountant $175! The agent also told me exactly which form to use for my situation. Calling directly is the only way to solve these weird edge cases.

I believe you might need to file your 2023 return first, possibly? The system is probably looking for that return in their database. You could potentially file both your 2023 and 2024 returns, even if you had minimal or no income for 2023. That might solve the verification issue, from what I understand.

This AGI verification is a security measure, not just a technical glitch. I'm not convinced there's a quick fix here. The IRS implemented this specifically to prevent fraud. If you genuinely didn't file last year and $0 isn't working, you're probably going to need to paper file or get professional help. The deadline is only 3 weeks away and the IRS backlog is substantial.

There are actually several solutions to this problem: • Use exactly $0 as your prior year AGI (no decimal points) • Check for a specific "did not file last year" option in your software • Create an account on IRS.gov which requires identity verification but bypasses AGI issues • Request an Identity Protection PIN through the IRS website • File by paper as a last resort I've helped dozens of clients with this exact issue. Most software has a specific way to handle non-filers from the previous year.

I've been there. It's frustrating. Try another software. Some handle this better. I used FreeTaxUSA last year. It worked fine. They have a specific option. Don't panic. Paper filing is always an option. Just mail it in. Takes longer for refunds though. Worth trying online options first.