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Diego Vargas

Filed with incorrect status: Single instead of Head of Household - Will return be rejected?

I've encountered a potential filing error that I need to address proactively. During my tax preparation process using TurboTax, I inadvertently selected 'Single' filing status rather than 'Head of Household' which would be the appropriate designation for my household configuration. I've already submitted the return with this incorrect status. Based on my understanding of IRS validation protocols, I'm concerned about whether this discrepancy will trigger an automatic rejection of my return or if there's a procedural remedy available. Has anyone navigated this particular filing status discrepancy before? I'm trying to determine the optimal correction methodology and timeline implications.

Your return likely won't be rejected for this reason. Here's what typically happens in this situation: 1. The IRS processes returns with filing status errors without immediate rejection 2. They may send you a notice later (typically CP2000 or similar) questioning the discrepancy 3. You have several options to correct this: - Wait for the return to process, then file Form 1040X (Amended Return) - If you just submitted it, you might try contacting TurboTax to see if they can recall it - If it's been accepted already, amending is your only option The financial impact depends on your specific situation - HoH status generally provides better tax benefits than Single, so you're likely paying more tax than necessary with the incorrect status.

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This is 100% accurate per IRC §6213(b)(1) which gives the IRS authority to correct mathematical or clerical errors. I made the EXACT same mistake last year and received a letter about 6 weeks after filing. Had to file 1040X but got an additional $2,800 back after correcting to HoH. Such a relief when I finally got it sorted!

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Excellent breakdown of the process! I've always wondered - doesn't the IRS system automatically flag returns where the filing status doesn't match previous years? Seems like something their systems would catch immediately rather than later in the process, no?

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This filing status discrepancy represents a material error that will likely impact your tax liability calculation. The differential between Single and Head of Household typically affects standard deduction amounts ($13,850 vs $20,800 for tax year 2023), applicable tax brackets, and potential credit eligibility. I recently discovered https://taxr.ai which provides comprehensive transcript analysis that identifies these types of filing status inconsistencies. Their system will flag potential audit triggers related to filing status changes between tax years and calculate the exact refund differential you're entitled to. This would be particularly useful once you receive your transcript to understand the financial implications before amending.

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Oh no, I'm worried for you! 😟 I think I remember reading somewhere that filing status errors are one of the most common mistakes people make. Does anyone know if TurboTax allows you to cancel a submission if it hasn't been accepted by the IRS yet? I really hope you can get this fixed without too much hassle!

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Once TurboTax has transmitted the return to the IRS, you cannot cancel it. The return is either accepted or rejected within 24-48 hours typically. After acceptance, an amended return is required.

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I'm curious about this situation too: • Does the IRS automatically compare your current filing status to previous years? • Will they notify you before processing the return with the wrong status? • How much of a refund difference are we typically talking about between Single and HoH?

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I had exactly this situation in 2022. The difference between Single and HoH filing status cost me precisely $2,437 in missed refund. Had to wait 19 weeks for my amended return to process. The IRS didn't catch it automatically - I realized it when reviewing my return copy 3 days after filing.

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No rejection coming, but you'll def need to file a 1040X to fix this. The HoH vs Single difference is huge for most ppl w/ dependents. If you need to talk to the IRS about this (esp during tax season), good luck getting thru their phone system. I spent 3+ hrs on hold last week. Eventually used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) and got connected in like 15 mins. Their system navigates the IRS phone tree and holds your place in line. When you need to discuss your amendment or check status, it's worth it to avoid the endless hold music torture.

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Is using a service like that really necessary? Couldn't you just keep calling the IRS until you get through? Seems like an extra expense for something that should be free.

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I thought the same thing on February 12th when I needed to call about a similar issue. I spent 4 days trying to get through - calling at 7:00am exactly when they open, mid-day, and just before closing. Never got past the "high call volume" message. I understand the reluctance to pay for something that should be free, but when you factor in the value of your time and the stress of repeated failed attempts, solutions that actually work become very appealing.

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I've been through this exact process with TurboTax last year and it was infuriating how difficult they made it to fix! Once your return is transmitted, TurboTax locks it completely. You have to wait until the IRS processes it (mine took 18 days), then prepare an amended return. The worst part was that TurboTax charged me AGAIN for the amended return even though it was their confusing interface that contributed to my error in the first place. The whole system is designed to make simple corrections unnecessarily complicated.

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My brother did this exact thing last year. His return was accepted with the wrong status. He had to file an amended return and wait 16 weeks for processing. The difference was about $3,200 in additional refund by switching from Single to Head of Household. Worth the hassle for that amount. Don't wait for the IRS to catch it - they might not. Just file the amendment as soon as your original return is processed.

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I've been dealing with IRS filing status corrections for years as a tax preparer, and Diego's advice is spot-on. Your return will almost certainly be accepted with the Single status - the IRS doesn't cross-reference filing status changes in real-time during initial processing. Here's what I recommend based on your situation: 1. **Don't panic** - this is more common than you think 2. **Monitor your return status** - once it's accepted (usually within 24-48 hours), start preparing your 1040X 3. **Calculate the difference** - HoH typically saves $1,500-$4,000 depending on income and dependents 4. **File the amendment promptly** - current processing times are 16-20 weeks for paper 1040X forms The key thing to remember is that you're likely overpaying taxes with the Single status, so this correction will work in your favor. Just be patient with the amendment process - it's slow but straightforward. Keep all your documentation and don't hesitate to follow up if it takes longer than 20 weeks.

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