Image Description Support Center
Our Support number is: 1-800-516-9442
<- Back to Main Page

e-file validation error: The 'http://www.ftb.ca.gov/efile:LastName' element is invalid - The 'http://www.ftb.ca.gov/efile:LastName' element is invalid - The value '' is invalid according to its datatype 'http://www.ftb.ca.gov/efile:CA-PersonLastNameType' - The Pattern constraint failed.

🔍 e-file Validation Error: Invalid LastName Element

This message indicates your California e-file validation failed because the Recipient's last name field is missing or does not match the required format.

Error details: The "http://www.ftb.ca.gov/efile:LastName" element is invalid. The value "" is invalid according to its datatype "http://www.ftb.ca.gov/efile:CA-PersonLastNameType". The Pattern constraint failed.

⚠️ Before You Begin

You will need:

  • Access to the return that is producing the validation error
  • The correct Recipient's last name for the Alimony paid entry

🧩 Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Locate the line referenced in the error

Use this when you need to find where the missing/invalid last name was entered.

Go to the California return section indicated by the message:

  • CA
  • Page 1
  • Line 18
  • Alimony paid

On that line, the system is asking for: Recipient's last name.

Step 2: Enter (or correct) the Recipient's last name

Use this when the LastName value is blank or does not match the required pattern.

In the Recipient's last name field for Alimony paid, enter the recipient’s last name so it is not blank.

The validation error shows the value is currently "" (empty), which fails the required datatype and pattern rules.

Step 3: Re-run e-file validation

Use this to confirm the correction resolved the issue.

After updating the last name, run the e-file validation again to ensure the error is cleared.

❌ Common Errors

  • Blank last name (the error shows the value is empty: "")
  • Last name not matching the required format (the error indicates a Pattern constraint failed)

If you still see the same validation message after entering a last name, double-check that the field is populated correctly on CA Page 1, Line 18 (Alimony paid).

📞 Still Need Help?

If you are having trouble, contact our support team:

Phone: 1-800-516-9442

Or submit a support ticket



Tags: diagnostic,state,form
Popular Articles