Need to deduct the state taxes I paid last year. The label for where to enter this is, "Payments for 2015 or a prior year .." Why would this say 2015? Is that a typo?

[GaryDoinTaxes]

I am filling out my 2017 taxes.  I need to deduct the state taxes I paid last year which was 2016 state taxes.  I know I need to go to Federal Taxes > Deductions and Credits > Estimates and Other Taxes Paid > Other Taxes Paid however the label for where I would enter the 2016 state taxes paid is actually labeled, "Payments for 2015 or a prior year state or local income taxes paid in 2017"  Why would this say 2015?  Is that a typo?  If not and that is the area to enter 2015 state taxes paid, where do you enter state taxes paid for 2016 state taxes?  Last year's state taxes.

[AnnetteB · Accepted solution]

No, it is not a typo.  That is actually the place to enter any taxes that were assessed for 2015 or a prior year, but paid in 2017. 

The entry you need is actually just two lines above the one you asked about.  It is labeled:  Balance Due on your 2016 state taxes paid in 2017.

Click on the thumbnail picture below for a visual reference.