H&R Block Federal Return Rejected - Says SSN Already Filed For 2024?

This is definitely something to address immediately as it's a strong indicator of potential identity theft. I've seen this happen in several different scenarios - sometimes it's a mix-up where a spouse or dependent was incorrectly claimed, but more often it points to someone filing fraudulently using your SSN. In my experience, compared to other tax issues, this requires prompt action with specific documentation. You'll need to: 1. Contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 800-908-4490 2. File Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) with a paper return 3. Include all supporting documentation (W-2s, 1099s, etc.) 4. Consider placing a credit freeze with the three major bureaus 5. File a report with the FTC at identitytheft.gov The sooner you start this process, the better. The IRS will investigate and determine which return is legitimate.

Have you checked your IRS transcript to confirm whether someone actually filed a return or if this might be a system error? Sometimes these rejection messages can be misleading... I'd want to verify before assuming identity theft, though it's certainly a possibility that shouldn't be dismissed.

This happened to me last tax season. I spent HOURS trying to reach the IRS to figure out what was happening. Their hold times were ridiculous - like 2+ hours every time I called. I finally used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) which got me through to an agent in about 15 minutes. The agent confirmed someone had fraudulently filed using my SSN and walked me through all the steps to resolve it. Saved me so much time and frustration when I was already stressed about the identity theft. The IRS website has all the resources too, but actually speaking to someone made the process much clearer.

It might possibly be worth checking with your parents or anyone who might have claimed you as a dependent? Sometimes there can be confusion if you were previously a dependent and are now filing independently for the first time. I believe H&R Block should be able to provide you with the specific rejection code, which could potentially provide more insight into the exact nature of the rejection.

Have you received any notices from the IRS in the mail recently? Sometimes they send letters about suspicious activity before you even try to file. I had this exact situation on April 2nd last year, and it turned out someone had already e-filed using my information in February. The IRS had actually sent me a verification letter that I had missed in my pile of mail.

This is almost certainly identity theft. The IRS has specific procedures for this situation. You need to file a paper return with Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) attached. Include a copy of your government ID and as much documentation as possible. The IRS will then investigate both returns to determine which is legitimate. They'll also place an identity protection marker on your account for future years. Don't wait on this - identity thieves typically file early in the season to beat legitimate taxpayers to the punch. Also file a police report and FTC complaint at identitytheft.gov as this creates an official record of the theft.

I went through this exact situation two years ago. At first I panicked thinking my identity had been completely stolen, but it turned out to be much simpler. My previous employer had accidentally submitted a W-2 with a typo in the SSN that happened to match mine. I called the IRS, explained the situation, and they helped me file a paper return with documentation. It took about 12 weeks to process instead of the usual 3 weeks for e-filing, but everything worked out fine in the end. Don't assume the worst right away - there are several possible explanations that aren't identity theft!