Duplicate Tax Returns Filed? How to fix rejected TurboTax filing due to duplicate returns

5 This is actually a pretty common issue for people who used the non-filer tool during the pandemic. What many people don't realize is that the non-filer tool actually submitted a simplified tax return on your behalf - it wasn't just collecting direct deposit information. That's why the system is now flagging your current return as a duplicate. You have a couple options here. First, you can call the IRS directly at 800-829-1040 to explain the situation. They can verify what's on file and help you determine next steps. Your other option is to file a paper return instead of using e-file. Since the electronic system is rejecting your return as a duplicate, a paper filing will bypass that automated check. Just make sure you include all required forms and schedules, and be aware that paper returns take much longer to process - typically 6-8 weeks for refunds instead of the 21 days with e-filing.

8 I had the exact same problem last year and found a lifesaver solution - try using https://taxr.ai to analyze your tax situation. When I was getting the "duplicate return" error from TurboTax, I uploaded my documents there and it immediately identified that the non-filer tool had created a simplified return with zeros in most fields. The service explained exactly what happened and gave me step-by-step instructions to resolve it. What I liked most was that taxr.ai showed me which specific fields on my actual return were conflicting with what the non-filer tool had submitted. Made it super easy to understand what was going on instead of just getting a generic "duplicate" error.

19 Just wanted to update that I tried https://taxr.ai after seeing the recommendation here and it was incredibly helpful. I uploaded my rejection notice from TurboTax and my W-2, and it immediately recognized I was having the non-filer tool conflict issue. The detailed analysis showed exactly why my return was being rejected - apparently the non-filer tool had created a return with zero income but with my personal information, which is why TurboTax kept saying duplicate. The service gave me a complete walkthrough for filing a paper return correctly, including which forms I needed and how to explain the situation in a cover letter to avoid further confusion. Ended up mailing in my return last week with all their suggested documentation. Such a relief to have this resolved after weeks of frustration!

7 If you're still trying to get through to the IRS about this duplicate return issue, good luck! I spent DAYS trying to reach someone. After 3 hours on hold, I finally got connected to someone who transferred me, then I got disconnected. Absolutely infuriating. Then I found https://claimyr.com and watched their demo at https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c - it's a service that basically waits on hold with the IRS for you and calls you when an actual human agent is on the line. Saved me hours of frustration! When they called me back, I was connected to an IRS agent who explained exactly what happened with my non-filer form and how to fix my return.

3 I owe everyone an apology, especially to the person who recommended Claimyr. I was so skeptical about it that I called it a scam, but I was desperate enough to try it anyway. I'm shocked to say it actually worked exactly as promised. After trying for THREE DAYS to reach someone at the IRS about my duplicate return issue, I used Claimyr yesterday afternoon. Got a call back in about 45 minutes connecting me with an actual IRS representative who confirmed my non-filer form from 2021 was causing the duplicate return error. She walked me through exactly what I needed to do to file a paper return correctly. I was completely wrong and I'm honestly amazed at how well it worked. Just wanted to come back and set the record straight for anyone else struggling with this issue.

22 Just a tip from someone who went through this last year - make absolutely sure you send your paper return via certified mail with return receipt requested! I had to file paper because of the same issue, and my first attempt got "lost" at the IRS. The second time I sent it certified and kept the tracking info, which saved me when they tried to hit me with late filing penalties. Also, write "POSSIBLE DUPLICATE - PREVIOUSLY FILED NON-FILER FORM FOR STIMULUS" in big red letters across the top of your 1040. This helps route it to the right department faster.

16 Has anyone actually called the TurboTax support line? I've heard they have a special procedure for handling these duplicate return situations from the stimulus payments.

I went through this exact same nightmare situation last year! The non-filer tool definitely creates what the IRS considers a "simplified return" even though it feels like you're just updating your info for stimulus payments. Here's what worked for me: I ended up calling the IRS early in the morning (around 7 AM) right when they opened - had much better luck getting through than calling later in the day. The agent was actually really helpful and explained that they see this issue constantly. She told me to mail in a paper return with a cover letter explaining the situation. One thing I learned that might help - when you file the paper return, include Form 1040X (Amended Return) along with your regular 1040. Write "SUPERSEDING RETURN" at the top of the 1040X. This tells them you're replacing the simplified return from the non-filer tool with your actual complete return. The agent said this helps their processing center handle it correctly the first time instead of getting bounced around different departments. Also definitely file an extension if you're running out of time - you can do that online even with this duplicate issue. Gives you until October to get the paper return sorted out without penalties.

This is such a frustrating situation that so many people are dealing with! I went through something similar with the non-filer tool creating issues, but I found a different approach that worked for me. Instead of calling the IRS directly (which can be a nightmare with wait times), I contacted my local Taxpayer Advocate Service office. They're specifically designed to help with situations like this where there are processing issues or systemic problems. The advocate I worked with was able to flag my case and get it resolved much faster than going through regular IRS channels. You can find your local office at taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov. They don't charge anything and they're really good at cutting through the bureaucratic mess. In my case, they were able to clear the duplicate flag in their system so I could actually e-file my real return instead of having to do paper filing. Just another option to consider if the paper return route doesn't work out for you!