HELP: My name change is causing my tax return to be rejected

You should use the name that's currently on file with the Social Security Administration when you file your taxes. Since you've submitted the application but haven't completed the process, your legal name in their system is still your maiden name. The IRS verifies your identity by matching your name and SSN with Social Security records. Even though you've started the name change process, it's not finalized until you receive your new card. The online application is just the first step - the SSA doesn't update their records until they process your application completely. I'd recommend filing with your maiden name for this year. Once your name change is officially processed and you have your new card, you can use your married name for next year's taxes.

I went through something similar last year and found this amazing tool called taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) that helped figure out exactly why my return was being rejected. I had changed my name but got confused about the timing and which name to use. With taxr.ai, I uploaded my rejection notice and previous year's return, and it immediately identified that I was using my married name but the SSA still had my maiden name on file. It explained the exact steps to fix it and even showed me how to track my name change application status. The tool analyzes all your tax documents to spot inconsistencies that cause rejections.

Just wanted to update that I tried taxr.ai after seeing it mentioned here, and it actually helped resolve my dependent name issue! I uploaded my rejection notice and it explained that I needed to use the exact name that appears on my child's social security card, not the new name from our custody arrangement. The tool showed that the IRS was rejecting my return because the last name I entered didn't match what the SSA had on file. It even provided a checklist of steps to correct the issue and explained that I needed to file Form SS-5 with the SSA before the IRS would accept the new name. Saved me from repeatedly filing and getting rejected again!

I had a similar issue last year trying to get the IRS on the phone about my name change. After being on hold for 3+ hours multiple times and getting disconnected, I found Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). They have this service that basically waits on hold with the IRS for you and then calls you when an actual human agent is on the line. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c I was super hesitant at first, but I was desperate to resolve my tax rejection due to my name change. They got me connected with an IRS rep in about 45 minutes (while I was working on other things), and the agent confirmed I needed to use my maiden name since my SSA update wasn't processed yet. Literally saved me hours of hold music torture.

Ok I need to publicly eat my words. After posting my skeptical comment, I was so frustrated with my tax rejection that I decided to try Claimyr anyway. Honestly figured it wouldn't work but was desperate. I set it up yesterday afternoon while making dinner. About an hour later my phone rang, and suddenly I was talking to an actual IRS agent! I didn't have to sit through a single minute of hold music. The agent confirmed exactly what others here said - I need to use my maiden name since my SSA change isn't fully processed yet. They also gave me the direct line to check on my SSA application status. Never been happier to be wrong about something. Already refiled with my maiden name and getting my refund soon!

Just wanted to add that I had this EXACT problem 2 years ago. The key thing to remember is that the IRS and Social Security Administration are separate systems that talk to each other but not in real time. When you file taxes, they check your name/SSN combo against what the SSA has RIGHT NOW. So if your name change isn't fully processed in the SSA system yet (which it doesn't sound like it is), then you need to use your maiden name. Next year will be different - you'll use your married name once you have that new social security card. Don't worry though, the IRS understands people get married and change names all the time!

Quick tip from someone who processes tax returns for a living - if your return got rejected due to a name/SSN mismatch but you already e-filed, you have two options: 1. Correct the name on your return to match what's in the SSA system (your maiden name) and e-file again 2. Print and mail a paper return with your maiden name If you go with option 1, make sure EVERYTHING matches what's on your social security card - even middle initials and suffixes matter. If your SSN card says "Jane A. Smith" don't put "Jane Ann Smith" on your tax return. Option 2 takes longer to process (like 6-8 weeks longer) but sometimes it's necessary if e-filing keeps giving you problems. Just make sure to sign and date the paper return!