Why Does My E-File Return Show Pending on Elfile?

Filing taxes electronically is meant to be a faster and more convenient alternative to paper returns, but it can sometimes leave filers wondering why their submission remains in “pending” status. This delay can be frustrating, especially when expecting a refund or confirmation of acceptance.

Understanding why your e-filed return is still pending can help determine whether action is needed or if patience is required.

Timeline for E-Filed Return Updates

Once an electronic tax return is submitted, it goes through several processing stages before reaching a final status. Within 24 to 48 hours, the IRS typically acknowledges receipt, confirming the return has entered the system for review. However, this does not mean it has been accepted or rejected yet.

The IRS runs automated checks to verify details like Social Security numbers and filing status. If no immediate errors are found, the return moves to the next phase, where reported income and deductions are cross-referenced with W-2s, 1099s, and other third-party data. This process can take a few days, but during peak filing periods—especially late January and early February—delays are common due to high submission volumes.

If the return clears these checks, it is either accepted for processing or flagged for further review. Acceptance means the IRS has preliminarily approved it, while additional review may be required if discrepancies, missing information, or fraud indicators are detected. Returns flagged for review can take longer to process, sometimes exceeding the standard 21-day refund timeline.

Reasons Your E-File May Show a Pending Status

A pending status can result from system backlogs, additional verification requirements, or technical issues.

One common reason is high submission volume. During peak tax season, the IRS processes millions of returns, which can slow down status updates. This backlog does not necessarily indicate a problem with the return itself.

Additional verification may also be required due to tax law changes or fraud detection measures. Returns claiming refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are subject to extra scrutiny under the PATH Act, which can extend processing times.

Technical issues can also contribute to delays. If the e-filing software experiences connectivity problems or fails to transmit data correctly, the IRS may not immediately receive the submission. This can happen during scheduled maintenance periods for the IRS’s e-file system or if there are server disruptions.

Common Rejection Codes

If an e-filed return moves from “pending” to “rejected,” the IRS provides a rejection code explaining the issue. These codes help taxpayers identify and correct errors before resubmitting. The most frequent rejection reasons involve mismatched personal details, incorrect financial data, or duplicate filings.

Mismatched Personal Information

A common reason for rejection is a discrepancy between the taxpayer’s personal details and IRS records. If the name, Social Security number (SSN), or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) on the return does not match what the Social Security Administration (SSA) or IRS has on file, the return will be rejected. This often happens when a taxpayer changes their name due to marriage or divorce but has not updated their records with the SSA.

Dependents’ information can also cause issues. If a taxpayer claims a dependent whose SSN has already been used on another return—whether due to a custody dispute or an error—the IRS will reject the submission. Taxpayers should verify that all names and numbers match official records. If a name change has occurred, updating it with the SSA before refiling can prevent further problems.

Invalid Financial Data

Errors in financial figures, such as an incorrect Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from the prior year, can also lead to rejection. The IRS uses the AGI as an identity verification measure for e-filed returns. If the AGI entered does not match what was reported on the previous year’s return, the system may reject the submission. This often happens when taxpayers use the wrong tax year’s AGI or if they filed an amended return, in which case the original AGI should still be used.

Another common financial data error involves incorrect employer-reported income. If the wages or tax withholdings on a return do not match the IRS’s records—typically sourced from W-2s and 1099s submitted by employers and financial institutions—the return may be rejected. Taxpayers should double-check their income documents before filing. If an employer issues a corrected W-2 (W-2c), using the updated figures is necessary to avoid discrepancies.

Duplicate Return Submission

A rejection may also occur if the IRS detects that a return has already been filed using the same SSN. This can happen if a taxpayer accidentally submits their return multiple times or if a spouse in a joint filing situation files separately using the same information. In some cases, this rejection may indicate potential identity theft, where a fraudulent return has been submitted using the taxpayer’s details.

If a duplicate filing rejection occurs, taxpayers should confirm whether they or their tax preparer inadvertently submitted the return more than once. If not, and identity theft is suspected, they should contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490 and consider filing Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit. The IRS may require additional verification before allowing the legitimate return to be processed.

Next Steps if You Need to Amend Your Filing

If an e-filed return is rejected, the next step is determining whether a simple resubmission will suffice or if a formal amendment is required. Minor errors, such as a typo in an address or bank account number, can often be corrected within the e-filing platform before resubmitting. However, if the mistake involves income misreporting, incorrect filing status, or omitted deductions, filing Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, is necessary.

When preparing an amendment, taxpayers should gather all relevant documentation, including revised W-2s, corrected 1099s, or IRS notices detailing discrepancies. The IRS does not allow e-filing of all amended returns, meaning some filers must mail a paper Form 1040-X. Processing times for amended returns can extend beyond 20 weeks, significantly longer than standard e-filed returns. This delay can impact refund timelines or create complications if an outstanding tax liability exists, as penalties and interest continue accruing until the corrected return is processed.