If any of the information on your W-2 is incorrect, you have to ask your employer to correct it and give you a new copy. The employer is also responsible for giving the Social Security Administration a new copy too. If your W-2 has to be corrected you will receive a W-2C.
W-2Cs usually report the previously reported information and the correct information. You want to make sure that the correct information is accurate.
If you have already imported your W-2 to TurboTax, or have imported your W-2 to H&R Block you are going to have to edit the information manually to make sure that your federal tax return is accurate. The information can be changed directly on the W-2.
E Filing With a W-2C or Substitute W-2
You can eFile with a W-2C however; you cannot eFile with a substitute W-2. You will have to print off the form and mail it off to the IRS with your return. In the event that your employer sends you a W-2 or W-2C that is different from your estimations, you will be responsible for filing an amended return.
Received a W-2 and W-2C – Which One to Use for Filing Purposes
If your W-2C was issued to correct information from your original W-2, you should only use the W-2C to file. However, if the two forms were from different employers you are going to have to enter the information from both forms. TurboTax and H&R Block will both handle adding up the combined incomes.
Duplicate W-2s
Sometimes employers may issue duplicate W-2s that have the same information. You should only file one if:
- All of the fields are the same
- The employer issued duplicates to report more than four items in box 12.
- They were issued to report employment in different states. It is common for people to duplicate their income when W-2s are issued for multiple states.
How to find your W-2 form online
Many taxpayers are going to be able to get their W-2 forms online. In order to be able to get your W-2 online, your employer has to make it available or use a company that has payroll services.
Many companies are making their employee’s W-2 forms available online because it makes filing taxes easier. If you use online filing services such as, TurboTax or H&R Block you have the ability to import your W2 information into your tax return so you can avoid worrying about your forms being delivered via snail mail.
