Why Was My Return Rejected for My Dependent’s SSN or Name?

This rejection occurs when your dependent’s Social Security Number (SSN) and/or last name does not match IRS records. The information must be corrected before the return can be resubmitted.

Here’s an overview of what we’ll cover—click any section to jump ahead.

• Error message:
• Why This Happens
• How to Resolve Step by Step
• Step 1: Update Your Dependent’s Last Name (If Needed)
• Step 2: Confirm with Support
• What You Need to Know
• Still Need Help?

Error message:

‘Each 'DependentSSN' and the corresponding 'DependentNameControlTxt' that has a value in 'DependentDetail' in the return must match the SSN and Name Control in the e-File database.’

Why This Happens

The IRS verifies each dependent’s SSN and last name against Social Security Administration (SSA) records when filing electronically.

This rejection typically occurs because:

• The dependent’s SSN was entered incorrectly
• The dependent’s last name does not match SSA records
• There is a typo or formatting issue
• A recent name change has not yet been updated with the SSA

The IRS database pulls directly from SSA records, so the information must match exactly.

How to Resolve Step by Step

Step 1: Update Your Dependent’s Last Name (If Needed)

1. Log in to your MyExpatTaxes account.
2. Visit the SSN & ITIN section in the software.
3. Review and update your dependent’s name to match their Social Security records.
4. For SSN, review your dependent’s SSN for accuracy.
5. Click Save.

Step 2: Confirm with Support

After updating the information, please contact our support team so we can resubmit your return.

For this type of rejection, we can only resubmit once you confirm that your dependent’s SSN and name are entered exactly as they appear in Social Security records.

What You Need to Know

• Your dependent’s name must match the name on their Social Security card exactly.
• Even small differences (hyphenation, spacing, suffixes) can trigger this rejection.
• If your dependent recently changed their name, it must be updated with the Social Security Administration before e-filing.
• You can verify or update Social Security records here:
• Social Security Administration (SSA)

Still Need Help?

If you’re unsure which information is incorrect, or if you continue receiving rejections after updating your details, please contact our support team, and we’ll review your account with you.