ERROR DETAIL: spouse ssn in the return must not be the same as the primary ssn on another return filed for the same tax year

[jh77]

The above is what is under "error detail" for rejection code IND-510-02.  But then it says something different under "error resolution".. The Irs rejected this return because the taxpayers's ssn has been entered on a return already filed and accepted.  Verify that the taxpayer's SSN is correct and resumit.  If the SSN was entered correctly, contact the IRS for further guidance.    If this problem cannot be resolved, you'll have to file by mail.  

Has anyone had this happen before?  I verified that both taxpayer and spouse's SSN were correct.   So, we have to mail their returns, fine.   But what else happens?   Will the IRS investigate it?  They are curious as to who stole their information, how, and when, etc.  I don't think they will get their answers, I just want to know if anyone else had this happen.  In the meantime, I will check IRS.gov, too.   Thank you. 

Jim

[Just-Lisa-Now-]

Mail it in, include the Form 8948 explaining that it was rejected due to someone else using the spouse SSN, its possible IRS issues an IPPIN to the spouse for the upcoming season, you'll have to wait and see.

IRS only cross matches the first 4 letters of a last name with an SSN, if they have a common last name, it could have just been a typo by someone else.  They will never be told who or why it happened, IRS never gives out that kind of info.

[Skylane]

Everything @Just-Lisa-Now- said is correct. I would include a printed copy of the rejection as proof of the original filing date 

[BobKamman]

IRS doesn't reveal the identity thief because they don't know who it is, themselves.  They will give you a copy of the fake return that was filed.  IRS / Treasury / Department of War do not have the resources to prosecute these crimes.  And IRS is about two years behind in processing Forms 14039 ("Individual Identity Theft Affidavit").  

But there's no tax on tips!