How Do I Report My W-2C?

A Form W-2C, Corrected Wage and Tax Statement, is issued when your employer needs to correct information that was reported on your original Form W-2. Whether you need to take action depends on whether you've already filed your tax return and whether the corrected amounts affect your tax liability.

To see a sample W-2C, please click here.

Do I Need to File an Amended Return?

If you've already filed your tax return for the year shown in Box C of Form W-2C, you may need to file an amended return.

Start by comparing the corrected amounts on your W-2C with the information reported on your original tax return. If the corrections change your income, withholding, or the tax you owe or are due to receive as a refund, you'll generally need to file an amended return.

If you haven't filed your tax return yet, simply use the corrected information from your W-2C when you prepare and file your return. Do not use the amounts from the original W-2 if they've been corrected.

You can view a sample Form W-2C on the IRS website for reference.

What If My Refund Amount Didn't Change?

If the corrected information on your W-2C does not change your tax return results, including your refund or balance due, you generally do not need to file an amended return.

Keep the W-2C with your tax records in case you need it later or if the IRS requests supporting documentation.

How Do I Enter a W-2C in the Program?

Enter a W-2C the same way you would enter a regular W-2. When you reach the W-2 entry screen, select This is a corrected W-2 and enter the updated information from the W-2C.

The steps you take next depend on the status of your return.

If You Haven't Filed Yet

If your return has not been submitted, or if the IRS rejected your original filing:
  1. Open the existing W-2 entry.
  2. Replace the original amounts with the corrected figures from the W-2C.
  3. Do not create a second W-2.
Adding a second W-2 can cause your wages and withholding to be reported twice, which may lead to an incorrect return.

If Your Return Was Accepted

If the IRS has already accepted your return:
  1. Update the existing W-2 entry with the corrected information from the W-2C.
  2. Review whether the changes affect your tax return.
  3. If the corrections change your tax situation, you may need to file an amended return.
In many cases, it's best to wait until the IRS finishes processing your original return before filing an amendment. The IRS may correct certain errors automatically or contact you if additional information is needed. Waiting can help prevent unnecessary filings and duplicate processing.
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