Error: The field 'VendorControlNum' with value '0' data is missing
This validation error occurs when the EFIN entered in the locator isn't validated. This is a new requirement for TY 2025. EFIN verification has been required for returns for several years and extends this year to include business tax types.
Error message
Validation failed on [FILE_ID]: Form: ReturnHeader Error: The field 'VendorControlNum' with value '0', data is missing. Element Name: VendorControlNum XPath: /Return[1]/ReturnHeader[1]/FilingSecurityInformation[1]/VendorControlNum[1] XML Fragment: 0 Field Key: 0,1957,2,0,0,0,0,0,0 Error Code: [CODE] Error Reason: '0' violates length constraint of '16'. The element '{http://www.irs.gov/efile}VendorControlNum' with value '0' failed to parse.
Solution 1
If your originator type is
Large Taxpayer
, do the following to populate TR's Online Provider EFIN
and VCN
in the XML:- Go to .
- Remove the EFIN to ensure theElectronic filing identification number (EFIN)field is blank.
- SelectLarge taxpayerunder theType of Originatorsection.
- Do a full recompute, then recreate the e-file.
Solution 2
If your originator type is
ERO
, you'll need to validate your EFIN
:- Go to .
- Go to .
- Complete all required fields on theEFIN Validationscreen.
- Upload youre-file Application Summary. Make sure the document matches the information on file with the IRS.
- Once complete and the EFIN is associated with the account, reopen the return, recompute, and recreate the e-file.
note
Only administrators have access to .