My birth date is incorrect with the IRS - can't e-file my tax return

This is actually a fairly common issue, and while frustrating, there are several ways to address it. First, for your immediate filing needs, you can complete a paper return. The forms are downloadable from the IRS website, and while it might seem intimidating, it's basically the same information you'd enter in tax software. You can even use the software to prepare everything, then print it out rather than e-filing. Just make sure to sign and date the return before mailing. For fixing the birth date issue, you'll need to submit Form 8822, "Change of Address," which despite its name, is also used to correct personal information like birth dates in IRS records. Include a copy of your birth certificate or passport as evidence of your correct birth date. If you're expecting a refund, filing a paper return will delay it, but it's the most reliable option when e-filing isn't working. Make sure to send it certified mail so you have proof of timely filing.

Had a similar nightmare with incorrect info in IRS systems last year. After calling for weeks, I found taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) which helped me figure out exactly what documents I needed to prove my case. Their system analyzed my situation and gave me a personalized checklist of exactly which forms to submit and what supporting documentation to include. The best part was they showed me how to properly prepare Form 8822 with all the right attachments so it wouldn't get rejected. Saved me so much headache and my issue was fixed within a month. Might be worth checking out if you're still struggling to get through to someone at the IRS.

Just wanted to follow up - I ended up trying taxr.ai after posting my skeptical comment. Surprisingly, it was actually really helpful! I uploaded my rejection notice from TurboTax and my ID, and within minutes got a complete walkthrough for fixing my birth date with the IRS. They created a custom cover letter to include with my Form 8822 explaining the situation, which I think made a huge difference. My birth date was corrected in about 4 weeks, and I was able to e-file an extension while waiting for the correction to process. Way better than waiting on hold for hours or paying my accountant extra fees to deal with it!

Another option if you absolutely need to speak with an IRS agent is Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). I was in a similar situation last year with incorrect information, and couldn't get through on the phone for weeks. I was about to give up when I found their service. They basically hold your place in line with the IRS and call you when an agent is about to pick up. Sounds too good to be true, but it worked perfectly for me! You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c I explained my birth date issue to the IRS agent, and they were able to note my account and give me clear instructions on what documentation to submit. Saved me so much frustration compared to constantly redialing the IRS.

I take back what I said about Claimyr being a scam. After more tax frustration this week, I got desperate and tried it. It actually worked exactly as described. I got a call back in about 2 hours telling me they had an IRS agent on the line. The agent confirmed my birth date was incorrect in their system (apparently it was off by 10 years!) and walked me through exactly what documentation to send in. She also put notes on my account about the issue so when I mail in my return, it won't get flagged for the birth date mismatch. I'm still sending in Form 8822 with my birth certificate as suggested, but now I'm confident it's being handled correctly. Definitely worth it for the peace of mind.

I had this exact issue in 2023 and fixed it by visiting my local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center in person. Had to make an appointment (call 844-545-5640), but once I got in, they corrected my DOB on the spot when I showed them my ID. Might be worth looking into if you're having trouble with the phone routes.

What tax software are you using? I had a similar issue with H&R Block online, but when I switched to TaxAct it let me file even though my birthday was wrong with the IRS. Maybe try a different software?

Just a quick tip - make sure when you fill out Form 8822 you check box 1 in Part I (not Part II) and ONLY fill out the line for birth date correction. I made the mistake of filling out every line and checking multiple boxes, and my form got misrouted and took 3 months to process. The IRS clerk I finally spoke with said to keep it simple and only complete the fields you need to change.

I went through this exact nightmare last year! The birth date mismatch is incredibly frustrating, but you have a few good options to get this resolved before the deadline. First, don't panic about the paper filing - it's actually not that complicated. You can use TurboTax to prepare everything normally, then instead of e-filing, just print out the forms and mail them in. Make sure to sign and date everything, and send it certified mail for proof of timely filing. For the long-term fix, definitely submit Form 8822 with a copy of your birth certificate. As someone mentioned, keep it simple - only fill out the birth date correction field and don't overthink it. One thing that really helped me was calling the IRS early in the morning (like 7 AM) when they first open. The hold times are usually shorter then. If you still can't get through, the Taxpayer Assistance Center appointment suggestion is solid - I wish I had known about that option when I was dealing with this. Also, remember you can always file for an automatic extension using Form 4868 if you need more time to sort this out. Just make sure to pay any estimated taxes owed by the original deadline to avoid penalties. You'll get through this - it's more common than you think and the IRS deals with these corrections regularly once you get the right paperwork to them!