IRS Form 2290 Reasons for Rejection: Name Control

E-filing with the IRS is like being on a dating game show. If you do not do everything the way they require it, you are rejected. But unlike a dating game, the IRS does give you a second chance, and a third, and a fourth, and…well you get it. When using ExpressTruckTax.com, you can resubmit a rejected return as many times as you need to win acceptance from the IRS.

In the first part of the – Understanding IRS Form 2290 Reasons for Rejection  Blog Series – I went over the most popular reasons for rejection we see here at ExpressTruckTax. There are a few more that you should be aware of to avoid IRS rejection, the first is Name Control Rejection.

What is a name control?
For the IRS to process your return, they use a name control ( a sequence of characters derived from a taxpayer’s name). The name control and EIN must match for the return to be accepted.

When you apply for your Employer Identification Number (EIN), the IRS establishes your name control from the legal name listed on the Form SS-4 Application for Employer Identification Number.

Why is the name control important?
When e-filing your 2290 with ExpressTruckTax, the EIN and name control needs to match what is listed in the IRS e-file database. If what you entered on the return does not match what the IRS information for your business, then the return will be rejected.

Can I verify my corporation’s name control prior to e-filing?
You sure can. Here is where the IRS is so sweet and considerate because they provide a handy-dandy Business & Specialty Help Line at 1-800-829-4933 to check your information prior to e-filing. The hours of operation for the help line are 7am – 7pm local time, Monday through Friday.

If my return is rejected due to  name control mismatch, what do I do?
First, make sure to stay calm, this a fixable problem. Your next step is to check the EIN on the rejected return and make sure it is correct. (REMEMBER: If it is a brand new EIN, it will take up to 10 business days to register in the IRS e-filing database.) If everything looks correct and you are still getting rejected because of EIN/Name Control mismatch, the IRS asks for you to call the e-Help Desk at 1-866-255-0564 and follow the prompts for assistance.

Before you start e-filing with ExpressTruckTax.com, it’s best to double check your business information to make sure everything is correct before transmitting your 2290 HVUT. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have about e-filing your 2290 via phone: 704.234.6005 or email: support@expresstrucktax.com.