Why Was My Tax Return Rejected With Code IND-182-01?

Seeing a tax return rejected can be frustrating, especially when it comes with an unfamiliar error code. One such rejection code is IND-182-01, which prevents your return from being processed until the issue is resolved. Understanding why this happens is key to fixing the problem and successfully submitting your return.

This error typically arises from mismatched or incorrect information. Identifying the cause will help you take the right steps to correct it and avoid further delays.

The Meaning of This Code

Rejection code IND-182-01 means the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) or Self-Select PIN used to verify your identity does not match IRS records. The IRS requires one of these methods for authentication, and any discrepancy results in rejection. This often happens when the AGI from the prior year is entered incorrectly due to a miscalculation or because the IRS has a different figure on file.

The AGI for verification must be the exact amount from Line 11 of your previous year’s Form 1040. If you filed jointly last year, both spouses must use the same AGI. If the IRS adjusted your prior return, the AGI you originally reported may no longer be valid. Taxpayers who used the Non-Filer tool in previous years or had their return processed late may also encounter this issue, as the IRS may not have an AGI on record.

If you are filing electronically for the first time and the IRS has no prior AGI on file, enter “0.” This applies to first-time filers or those who did not submit a return the previous year.

Data Entry Issues

Mistakes when entering tax information can trigger rejection code IND-182-01. Even minor errors, such as transposed digits in a Social Security number or an extra space in a name, can cause rejection. Tax software does not correct these issues automatically, so accuracy is essential.

Selecting the wrong filing status is another common mistake. If you changed your status from the previous year—such as moving from “Single” to “Head of Household” or from “Married Filing Jointly” to “Married Filing Separately”—you may have chosen the wrong category. The IRS cross-references this information, and inconsistencies can lead to rejection.

Errors in dependent information also contribute to rejections. If a taxpayer claims a dependent whose details do not match IRS records or who has already been claimed on another return, the submission may be denied. This is especially common in shared custody situations. Double-checking Social Security numbers and ensuring dependents are correctly listed according to IRS guidelines can help prevent this issue.

Address and Identity Mismatches

The IRS verifies personal details against its records, and inconsistencies with a taxpayer’s address or identity can lead to rejection. A frequent issue arises when a filer has moved recently but has not updated their address with the IRS. If the return lists a different address than what the IRS has on file, the system may flag it as a mismatch. This is especially common for those who relocated after filing their previous return, as the IRS typically uses the last known address unless a formal change is submitted through Form 8822.

Identity mismatches can also occur when a taxpayer’s legal name does not align with IRS records. Individuals who have changed their name due to marriage, divorce, or legal proceedings must ensure their information matches the Social Security Administration (SSA) database. If the IRS still has a taxpayer’s old name on file, the return may be rejected. Updating SSA records before filing can resolve this issue.

Another complication arises when taxpayers use different variations of their names across documents. If a Social Security card lists a full legal name but a shortened version is used on tax forms, the discrepancy can cause rejection. The IRS requires names to match exactly as they appear on SSA records.

Validating Tax-Related Forms

Discrepancies in third-party tax documents, such as W-2s and 1099s, can lead to rejection. The IRS independently receives these forms from employers and financial institutions, and if the income reported on a tax return does not match, the return may be flagged or rejected. Reviewing these forms for accuracy before filing can prevent inconsistencies.

Errors can also arise from incorrect Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) or tax preparer details. Taxpayers using a paid preparer should ensure that the Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) and Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) are valid and correctly entered. An incorrect or missing PTIN can result in delays, particularly for self-employed individuals or small business owners. Additionally, discrepancies in tax software-generated forms, such as Schedule C for sole proprietors or Form 8862 for taxpayers reclaiming the Earned Income Tax Credit, can contribute to rejection issues.

Filing Corrected Returns

Once the cause of rejection code IND-182-01 is identified, submitting a corrected return is the next step. The IRS allows taxpayers to resubmit electronically after making necessary adjustments, but repeated rejections can occur if errors persist. Ensuring that the AGI or Self-Select PIN exactly matches IRS records is the most effective way to avoid further issues. If the IRS adjusted a prior return, retrieving the correct AGI from an IRS transcript rather than relying on personal records can prevent discrepancies.

If electronic resubmission continues to fail, filing a paper return may be necessary. While paper submissions take longer to process—often six to eight weeks—this method bypasses electronic verification issues. Taxpayers choosing this option should include a signed copy of their return and any supporting documentation. Mailing the return to the correct IRS address ensures it reaches the appropriate processing center.

Contacting the IRS

If repeated rejections occur despite correcting errors, contacting the IRS directly may be necessary. The IRS provides a toll-free helpline for individual taxpayers at 1-800-829-1040, where representatives can verify AGI discrepancies, confirm identity details, and provide guidance on resubmission. Calling early in the day or midweek can reduce wait times.

For taxpayers needing official confirmation of their prior-year AGI, requesting a tax transcript is an option. The IRS offers free transcripts through the Get Transcript tool on its website, by mail, or by phone. A Tax Return Transcript includes the AGI from the previous year, ensuring the correct figure is used when resubmitting electronically. If identity verification issues persist, visiting a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center with proper identification may be necessary to resolve the problem in person.