Maybe your friend was applying for a Non Imm Visa and not a 12 month extension.
Who knows considering the little information you gave us.
Surely he asked them why?
He can get 12 month extensions based on retirement with 800,000 Baht in the bank. His Wife can get the same extension as his dependant with zero money in the bank.
Entering with Non Imm O Visas will make it easier.