How to resolve validation failure during Lacerte e-file: 601ERRV:8 Malformed Data

This article explains how to resolve an e-file transmission error in Lacerte. The message says:

• Validation Failure: Error 601: The Lacerte Electronic Filing Center is having difficulty recognizing the data you are sending. Please try sending the return(s) again. - 601ERRV:8 Malformed_1.0-?:? - Malformed Data

This error can be caused by data corruption in the tax return which will only show while in Batch Mode. To resolve:

1. Go to an input screen where return information is entered.
2. Hit Ctrl+W and Batch Mode will open.
3. Remove any odd characters or wingdings.
4. Do this for every screen where information is entered.
5. Hit Ctrl+W again to exit Batch Mode and e-file the return again.