1040-DR - Desktop | How to Fix "Unsent Batch" Error

1040-DR - Desktop | How to Fix "Unsent Batch" Error

How to Fix an “Unsent Batch” Message in 1040-DR

An Unsent Batch message means the return did not transmit successfully. Use the steps below to identify and fix the issue.

Common Causes

  1. Internet connection issues.

  2. Incorrect EFIN or e-file password.

  3. PDF attachments that are too large.

Step 1: Check Internet Connection

  1. Confirm the computer is connected to the internet.

  2. Test access by visiting one of these sites:

  3. Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Internet Options.

  4. Open the Advanced tab.

  5. Under Security, uncheck all SSL options.

  6. Click OK and retry transmission.

Step 2: Verify EFIN

Step 3: Verify E-File Password

  1. Log in to the Drake Support website.

  2. Go to Account > E-File Password.

  3. Click Copy to avoid extra spaces.

  4. In 1040-DR, paste the password into the ERO setup screen.

  5. Save and retry transmission.

Step 4: Check PDF Attachment Size

Transmission limits:

  • 128 MB total per transmission.

  • 60 MB per individual PDF.

Large scanned documents can cause failures.

Reduce File Size

  1. Re-scan documents using:

    • 200 DPI instead of 600.

    • Black and white or monochrome.

  2. Replace the attachment:

    1. Go to View/Print.

    2. Click Attach PDF.

    3. Click Browse and select the smaller file.

  3. Recalculate the return.

  4. Retry e-filing.

Other Options

  1. Try transmitting at a different time with a more stable connection.

  2. Transmit federal and state returns separately using the EF screen.

Step 5: Use Form 8453 if Needed

If file size is still an issue:

  1. Go to the EF screen.

  2. Under Form 8453 Paper Document Indicators, select the form the attachment supports.

  3. Let 1040-DR generate Form 8453.

  4. Print and mail the form with the document.

  5. Remove the original PDF attachment:

    • Go to the PDF Attachments screen.

    • Press Ctrl + D.

Step 6: Remove the Unsent Batch

If the batch is stuck:

  1. Go to EF > Transmit/Receive.

  2. Select the return.

  3. Click Review.

  4. Select the return again.

  5. Click Remove.