The New York W-2 Verification Indicator is a special code that may be required when electronically filing a New York return. The code is used by New York State to help verify wage information reported on a tax return.
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New York State Return > Basic Information > W-2 Verification Indicator
What Is the Purpose of the W-2 Verification Indicator?
The W-2 Verification Indicator helps the New York Department of Taxation and Finance verify wage information reported on electronically filed returns.
Most taxpayers will not need to enter a verification indicator.
When Is a W-2 Verification Indicator Required?
You may need to enter a W-2 Verification Indicator if:
- Your New York return was rejected due to a Form W-2 error.
- New York State instructed you to enter the verification code.
- You were provided a verification indicator by the New York State e-file Help Desk.
What Should I Do If My Return Is Rejected for a W-2 Error?
If your New York return is rejected because of a Form W-2 error:
- Review your Form W-2 carefully.
- Verify that all wages, withholding amounts, employer information, and identification numbers were entered correctly.
- Correct any data entry errors found on the return.
- If no errors are found, contact the New York State e-file Help Desk for assistance.
The New York State e-file Help Desk may provide information needed to complete the W-2 Verification Indicator field.
Where Can I Find the Verification Indicator?
The verification indicator does not appear on every Form W-2.
Only enter a verification indicator if:
- It appears on your Form W-2; or
- New York State specifically provides the code after a rejection.
If neither applies, leave the field blank unless instructed otherwise.
How Do I Enter the W-2 Verification Indicator?
If New York instructs you to enter a W-2 Verification Indicator:
- Open your New York return.
- Go to the W-2 Verification Indicator section.
- Enter the verification code exactly as provided.
- Continue through the New York interview process.
- Resubmit the New York return electronically.
How Does the W-2 Verification Indicator Affect My Return?
The W-2 Verification Indicator:
- Does not change your income.
- Does not change your tax liability.
- Does not affect your refund.
- Does not affect your balance due.
- Helps New York verify wage information reported on the return.
Important Information
- Most taxpayers will not need to enter a W-2 Verification Indicator.
- Always review your Form W-2 for data entry errors before entering a verification code.
- Enter the verification code exactly as provided.
- An incorrect verification indicator may cause the return to be rejected again.
- The verification indicator is used for identity and wage verification purposes only.
Additional Information
If your New York return is rejected due to a Form W-2 issue and you cannot identify any errors on the return, contact the New York State e-file Help Desk before resubmitting your return. They can assist with determining whether a W-2 Verification Indicator is required.