For couples filing taxes together, linking returns is designed to make sharing spousal information seamless. However, when a partner's return is connected to the wrong profile or an outdated account, it can create confusing errors that prevent a return from being submitted.
The Problem
A common issue occurs when:
One spouse has already completed and submitted their return.
The other spouse is unable to submit because the system continues to request information from the partner's return.
Spousal amounts and shared tax information do not automatically populate.
The account appears to be linked to a duplicate, inactive, or locked profile.
In these situations, the software may incorrectly believe that the partner's return still needs attention, even though it has already been completed elsewhere.
A Temporary Workaround
If you're using the platform on a laptop or desktop browser, there may be a way to move past the validation stage:
Open your return.
Locate the option to switch to your partner's profile.
Access the linked profile.
Continue through the interview and validation steps until the error-checking process is completed.
Return to your own return and attempt submission again.
This can clear the blocking error and allow the filing process to continue.
Why This Isn't the Recommended Solution
While the workaround may help you submit your return, it can create problems if:
Spousal transfers are involved.
Shared tax credits need to be allocated correctly.
Income or deduction amounts must flow between returns.
The linked profile contains incomplete or inaccurate information.
If the wrong profile remains connected, tax calculations may not reflect the correct family situation.
The Recommended Fix
The best solution is to remove the incorrect partner link and reconnect the correct return.
To do this:
Open your account settings.
Navigate to My Profile.
Select the option to Unlink Partner Return.
Confirm the unlinking process.
Reconnect your return to the correct partner profile.
Review all shared information and continue filing.
Once the correct profiles are linked, spousal amounts should populate properly and both returns can be processed using accurate information.
How to Avoid This Issue
To reduce the chance of partner-linking problems:
Verify that both spouses are using the correct accounts before linking.
Avoid creating duplicate profiles.
Confirm that the partner return displayed in the system matches the intended filer.
Review shared information after linking and before submitting.