diff --git a/osf/models/preprint.py b/osf/models/preprint.py
index f763d8d23cf..fe1e1ae8e59 100644
--- a/osf/models/preprint.py
+++ b/osf/models/preprint.py
@@ -407,7 +407,7 @@ def check_unfinished_or_unpublished_version(self):
         """Check and return the "initiated but unfinished version" and "unfinished or unpublished version".
         """
         last_not_rejected_version = self.get_last_not_rejected_version()
-        if last_not_rejected_version.date_published:
+        if not last_not_rejected_version or last_not_rejected_version.date_published:
             return None, None
         if last_not_rejected_version.machine_state == 'initial':
             return last_not_rejected_version, None