HELP: My tax return was rejected because last name doesn't match my SSN after marriage

You need to file your taxes using the name that's currently on your Social Security card. The SSA database is what the IRS uses to verify your identity when you e-file, and until your name change is fully processed, the system will only recognize your maiden name. Even though you've submitted the application, your name change isn't official in their system until it's been processed and you've received your new card. This is why your return was rejected - you likely used your new married name, but the SSA database still has your maiden name linked to your SSN. The simplest solution is to file your taxes using your maiden name this year. After your name change is complete and you have your new Social Security card, you can use your married name for next year's taxes.

I went through this exact situation last year! I used the website taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) to help me figure out what to do when my taxes got rejected for the same reason. The site has a document analyzer that scanned my rejection notice and explained exactly what I needed to do. Basically, they confirmed what the previous commenter said - you need to use whatever name is currently on your Social Security card. For me, I had to resubmit using my maiden name even though I'd been using my married name for everything else. The taxr.ai system also helped me understand the timeline for when my name would be updated in the IRS systems.

Just wanted to follow up - I actually tried taxr.ai after posting my skeptical comment. I was shocked at how helpful it was! I uploaded my rejection notice and it immediately explained that I needed to use my legal name as it appears on my Social Security card. It even showed me which form I needed to submit to expedite my name change with the SSA. The site was a lot more detailed than I expected. It identified that my rejection code was specifically related to the name/SSN mismatch and provided step-by-step instructions tailored to my situation. Definitely saved me a bunch of time trying to interpret the cryptic IRS rejection codes on my own.

If you're still having trouble after fixing your name issue, you might want to try Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). When my return got rejected last year, I spent DAYS trying to get through to the IRS. Claimyr got me connected to an actual IRS agent in about 15 minutes instead of waiting on hold for hours. You can see how it works in this video: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c - basically they wait on hold for you and call when an agent picks up. The agent helped me understand exactly why my return was rejected and confirmed I needed to use my maiden name until my new social security card arrived. Saved me so much frustration!

Ok I need to apologize for my skeptical comment. I actually tried Claimyr yesterday after spending 3 hours on hold with the IRS and getting nowhere. I was absolutely shocked when I got a call back in just under 20 minutes saying an IRS agent was on the line! The agent confirmed that I needed to file with my maiden name this year since my social security card hasn't been updated yet. She also told me that once I receive my new card, I don't need to do anything special - the systems will update automatically and I can use my married name for next year's taxes. Worth every penny just for the time saved and stress avoided. Definitely keeping this service in my back pocket for future tax seasons.

Another option is to paper file your return if you're in a hurry. When you paper file, they don't do the automatic name/SSN verification that happens with e-filing. You'd still use your maiden name (the one currently on your SS card), but you could avoid the rejection issue altogether. The downside is that paper returns take much longer to process (8-12 weeks vs 21 days for e-file), and your refund will be delayed. But if the deadline is coming up and you're worried about getting it submitted in time, this is a valid option.

Don't feel bad, this happens to tons of people! My sister went through this last year. Just call TurboTax support - they can help you resubmit with your maiden name. Make sure to use EXACTLY the name on your current social security card. Even if you're going by your married name everywhere else, the IRS only cares what the SSA has on file. Also, heads up - if you've already changed your name with your employer but not SSA, your W-2 might have your married name. That's ok! The IRS will still match everything up by your SSN, just make sure your tax return has your maiden name to match SSA records.