ATX™ 2017

Avoiding Common E-file Rejection Errors

There are several things you can do to avoid e-filing rejection errors:

Update Tax Program and Forms Frequently

Frequent updates will help prevent IRS rejections. See Updating ATX.

Internet Connectivity and Software Accessibility

The most important e-filing prerequisite is the ability to transmit your data via an Internet connection. In regard to your connection, there are a few things you should keep in mind order to avoid e-filing problems:

Connection speed – We recommend using a broadband connection, such as DSL or cable. In most cases, dial-up is too slow to handle the size of the e-filed return.
Connection type – You can have either a direct connection or a portal connection to the Internet. A direct Internet connection is one in which your computer uses the standard TCP/IP Protocol to communicate with other computers and access Internet services, such as e-mail, Telnet, or FTP. While connected via TCP/IP, you can check your e-mail, for example, with any e-mail program you choose. Your Internet service provider (ISP) does not require you to use its program to access e-mail or other Internet services.
Firewalls - A firewall prevents unauthorized access to and from a network or a stand-alone computer. A firewall can be a physical device (hardware), a program (software), or both. To make sure you have a good connection between your system and the EFC, you'll have to set some parameters in your firewall software.