Getting a W-2c can be a little unnerving, but don't worry! It simply means your employer found an error on your original W-2 and issued a corrected version. Filing it with TurboTax is usually a straightforward process. Let's break it down step-by-step so you can confidently handle this.
How to File a W-2c with TurboTax: Your Complete Guide
Step 1: Unpacking Your W-2c - Do You Really Need to Amend?
Before we even think about opening TurboTax, let's understand your W-2c. You've received this form, and the first question on your mind is probably, "Do I need to amend my tax return?"
Look closely at your W-2c. It will have two columns for each affected box: "Previously Reported" and "Correct Information."
Compare the "Correct Information" amounts on your W-2c with the amounts you originally reported on your already filed tax return.
If the corrected amounts change your U.S. income tax liability (meaning your tax owed or your refund amount is different), then yes, you will likely need to file an amended return.
If the changes are minor and don't impact your tax liability, you might not need to amend. For instance, if only your name or address was corrected and no financial figures changed, you usually don't need to amend your tax return with the IRS, though you should keep the W-2c for your records.
Crucial Tip: If you haven't filed your original tax return yet for the year the W-2c applies to, simply use the corrected information from the W-2c when you file your initial return. Do not enter both the original W-2 and the W-2c as separate forms, as this would double your income!
Ready to proceed? Let's dive into TurboTax!
Step 2: Accessing Your Tax Return in TurboTax
Whether you need to amend or simply enter the corrected information for the first time, you'll start by accessing your tax return in TurboTax.
For Unfiled Returns: If you haven't filed your return yet, simply log in to your TurboTax account and continue working on your current year's return. You'll navigate to the "Wages & Income" section.
For Already Filed and Accepted Returns (Amending):
Log in to your TurboTax account.
You'll likely see an option to "Amend (change) your return." Select this.
TurboTax will guide you through the process of creating an amended return (Form 1040-X). It's generally recommended to wait until your original return has been fully accepted and processed by the IRS before attempting to amend.
Step 3: Navigating to the W-2 Entry Section
Once you're in your tax return, you need to find where you originally entered your W-2 information.
Using the Search Bar (Recommended for speed):
In the TurboTax search bar (usually at the top right of the screen), type "W-2" or "W2c".
Select the "Jump to W-2" or similar link that appears in the search results. This will take you directly to the W-2 input screens.
Manual Navigation:
Go to the "Wages & Income" (or "Income & Expenses") section.
Look for "Job (W-2) income" or "Wages and Salaries."
Click "Start" or "Revisit" next to it.
Step 4: Entering Your W-2c Information
This is where you'll make the necessary corrections.
Locate Your Existing W-2: You should see a list of W-2s you've already entered. Find the W-2 that corresponds to the W-2c you received.
Edit the Existing W-2:
Click on the "Edit" button next to the relevant W-2.
Do NOT add a new W-2 for the W-2c. This would result in your income being reported twice. You are correcting an existing entry.
Indicate It's a Corrected W-2 (W-2c):
As you go through the W-2 entry screens, TurboTax will likely ask you if this is a corrected W-2. Look for a checkbox or question that says something like "This is a corrected W-2 (Form W-2c)" or "My employer sent me a corrected W-2." Be sure to check this box! This tells TurboTax to properly handle the corrected information.
Inputting the Corrected Data:
You'll see fields that mirror your W-2. Carefully replace the original incorrect numbers with the "Correct Information" figures from your W-2c for all affected boxes (e.g., Box 1, Box 2, Box 3, Box 5, Box 16, etc.).
If your W-2c only corrected specific boxes (like just your SSN or name), only update those fields in TurboTax. Leave the unaffected boxes as they were.
Pay special attention to Box 1 (Wages, tips, other compensation), Box 2 (Federal income tax withheld), Box 3 (Social Security wages), Box 5 (Medicare wages and tips), and any state or local tax boxes (Boxes 15-20) if they are different.
Step 5: Reviewing Your Changes
After you've entered the corrected W-2c information, TurboTax will recalculate your return.
TurboTax will typically show you a summary of the changes. Review this summary carefully.
Pay attention to your updated refund or tax due amount. Does it make sense based on the corrections?
If you are amending, TurboTax will generate Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. This form shows the original amounts, the adjusted amounts, and the net change. Take your time to review Form 1040-X to ensure all changes are accurately reflected.
Step 6: Filing Your Amended Return (if necessary)
If the W-2c necessitated an amendment, this is the final step.
Follow TurboTax's prompts for filing the amended return.
E-filing vs. Mail:
While many original returns can be e-filed, amended returns (Form 1040-X) usually cannot be e-filed through TurboTax. You will typically need to print and mail your amended federal and state returns.
TurboTax will provide you with clear instructions on where to mail your federal and state amended returns.
Be sure to sign and date your amended return before mailing it.
Attach a copy of your W-2c to your mailed amended return.
Keep Records: Always keep a copy of your filed original return, your W-2c, and your amended return for your records.
Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the W-2c process with TurboTax!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - How to File a W-2c with TurboTax
Here are 10 common questions about W-2c forms and filing them with TurboTax:
How to know if I need to file an amended return after receiving a W-2c?
Compare the "Correct Information" on your W-2c with what you originally reported. If your tax liability (what you owe or your refund) changes due to the correction, you likely need to amend.
How to enter a W-2c in TurboTax if I haven't filed my original return yet?
Simply edit your existing W-2 entry in TurboTax and update the incorrect fields with the "Correct Information" from your W-2c. Do NOT add a new W-2.
How to find the W-2 entry section in TurboTax?
Use the search bar at the top of TurboTax and type "W-2" or "W2c", then select the "Jump to" link. Alternatively, navigate to "Wages & Income" and then "Job (W-2) income."
How to tell TurboTax that my W-2 is a corrected one (W-2c)?
When editing the W-2, look for a checkbox or question that states "This is a corrected W-2 (Form W-2c)" or similar, and be sure to check it.
How to ensure I don't accidentally double my income by entering a W-2c?
Always edit your existing W-2 entry to reflect the W-2c information. Do not add the W-2c as a brand new W-2 form.
How to handle a W-2c that only corrects my name or address?
If only your name or address changed and no financial figures were altered on the W-2c, you typically do not need to amend your federal tax return. Keep the W-2c for your records.
How to know if my original tax return has been accepted before I amend it?
You can check the status of your federal refund on the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool, and your state refund on your state's tax agency website. An accepted status means it's usually safe to amend.
How to file my amended return (Form 1040-X) after entering the W-2c in TurboTax?
TurboTax will generate Form 1040-X. You will typically need to print, sign, date, and mail this form along with a copy of your W-2c to the IRS and your state tax agency (if applicable).
How to find the mailing address for my amended tax return?
TurboTax will provide the correct mailing addresses for both federal and state amended returns when you complete the amendment process.
How to get help if I'm still confused about filing my W-2c with TurboTax?
TurboTax offers various support options, including their online community forums, help articles, and paid expert assistance. You can also consult a tax professional for personalized advice.