Resolving Error Code 539 in ProSeries

When installing, transferring data, saving, or e-filing tax returns, you may see "Fatal error loading data file, load error 539 in S20YYZXX : the data file contains one or more returns for products not installed on your system, please verify your ProSeries installation and if necessary, please reinstall missing products."

Fatal error 539 indicates that there is a state return attached to the client file, but the corresponding state program isn't currently installed. First we have to identify which state or city is missing:

First, determine which return is causing the error:

The XX in the error message (S20YYZXX) is a state abbreviation and YY is the tax year of the tax program. For example, S2033ZAL refers to the Alabama program. The letter before the state abbreviation indicates the return type:

• Z = 1040 or 1040NR
• F= 1041
• C= 1120
• S= 1120S
• P = 1065

Sometimes, instead of a standard state code you may see a form number or the city description, such as YC for New York City. Some of the common ones are:

• YC = New York City
• CA568 = CA LLC
• OH1120s = Ohio Pass Through

Next, install the missing state/city.

1. From the Update menu, choose Select and Download New Products,
2. Choose the state you need to add.
3. Click Next.

Last, review the state/city or remove it:

After you install the state, if you intend to electronically file the state return referred to in the error message, go to the state return, run Final Review, and save the return. Assuming there are no errors in the state return, you should now be able to transmit.

If this state was attached in error or no longer needed, go to the federal return, go to the File menu and choose Remove State/City, select the state, and choose Remove.