Many IRS terms and codes continue to be a head scratcher to the typical taxpayer. Tax terminologies may be perplexing, whether you’re a first-time tax filer or have been doing so for years. IRS Code 9001 is a common error code, although many individuals are unaware of its meaning. We’ll look at IRS Error Code 9001 and how to prevent it.

What is IRS Error Code 9001?

“Taxpayer accessed Refund Status using a secondary TIN,” according to IRS Code 9001. The status of a refund could not be returned. Obtain a Primary TIN, analyze the account, and adhere to the relevant IRM.”

The code itself explains what it means: you submitted a tax return with numerous Social Security numbers connected to it. This is often a husband and wife, although it might potentially include children (you never know, adult dependents may be checking the status of the refund). When you submit your tax return, you must choose a principal taxpayer, and any spouse or children are considered secondary.

How the IRS advises on this:

The IRS created the “Where’s My Refund?” site so that taxpayers may track the progress of their federal income tax return and refund. To use the portal, you will need three pieces of information:
1) Your Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
2) Your filing status
3) The amount of the refund you anticipate receiving
This refund amount should be stated in whole dollars and must exactly match the amount shown on your tax returns.

Having code 9001 is not an audit, therefore taxpayers need not be concerned. It simply implies that an attempt was made to retrieve return or refund results using the incorrect Social Security number or TIN.

What You Need To Do:

If you obtain IRS Code 9001 when you log in, you usually don’t need to do anything. In fact, unless you have a compelling cause to contact the IRS, don’t.

First and foremost, the IRS is now overburdened with calls, and you might waste hours on the phone for nothing.

Second, if the IRS discovers a problem with your return, they will send you a letter outlining the problem and the next actions. Because of the risk of identity theft, most matters cannot be resolved over the phone with the IRS. If you are receiving this code and are certain that you are using your primary SSN, you should contact the IRS or visit your local office.

These precautions should be taken to avoid probable identity theft; otherwise, it is rather simple.