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1040-DR - Desktop | Fixing EF Message 0500: Missing ID Information

1040-DR - Desktop | Fixing EF Message 0500: Missing ID Information

EF Message 0500 – Missing IRS ID Information

EF Message 0500 is a blocking e-file error. It appears when required taxpayer ID information is missing from the return.
This requirement is part of the IRS Security Summit to reduce identity theft.

How to Clear EF Message 0500

You must complete one option on the IDS screen for each person on the return.

Option 1: Enter Driver’s License or State ID

Enter all required fields:

  1. ID number

  2. Issuing state

  3. Issue date

  4. Expiration date

Option 2: No ID Exists

If the person does not have an ID:

  1. Check Mark this box if taxpayer doesn't have a driver's license or a state-issued photo ID.

Option 3: ID Not Provided

If the person has an ID but did not give it:

  1. Check Mark this box if the taxpayer did not provide a driver's license or state-issued photo ID.

Important: You must select one option. 1040-DR will not assume a choice.

Date Entry Tips

Use one of these formats:

  • MMDDYY

  • MMDDYYYY

Watch for 2-Digit Year Issues

  • Years before 28 are read as 20YY

  • Years 28 or later are read as 19YY

Example:

  • 010128 = January 1, 1928 ❌

  • 01012028 = January 1, 2028 ✅

Month and Year Only on ID

If the ID shows only MM/YYYY:

  1. Enter the date as the first of the month.

Example:

  • July 2025 → enter 07012025

State-Specific Notes

  1. Federal EF Message 0500 clears once any valid option is completed.

  2. Some states still require full ID details to e-file or issue refunds.

  3. Always verify state-specific ID rules before transmitting.

Tip

You can set defaults in preparer setup to pre-fill ID indicators.
This is not recommended. Each return requires an explicit selection to remain compliant.