Incorrect W-2 from Employer who uses Paychex who are not responding.

[sarkarp]

My employer uses Paychex for payroll and they issued an incorrect W-2 that incorrectly reports my salary almost $25,000 extra. We notified them in a couple of weeks before the April 2025 tax deadline. I filed an extension and paid taxes calculating based off my correct salary.

It's now been months of repeatedly trying to get them to issue a corrected W-2 with no response or fix, and the Oct 2025 extension deadline is approaching.

I don't want to file and have to pay taxes on an incorrect extra $25,000 for Paychex's error, but I'm afraid not matching what the goverment has for my W-2 will flag me or cause a ton of headaches.

What is the best course of action to take at this point Mid-Sept? 

[KusyJ]

You have the option to request an IRS representative initiate a Form W2 complaint. Call the IRS at (800)-829-1040 or go to the link: IRS Tax payer assistance center).

Follow this link from the IRS for further guidance:  Incorrect W2 FAQ.

You should obtain a copy of your W2 transcript from your IRS online account:  

If you do not have an account, you can create one through the following steps:

1. Go to this address (cut and paste into browser): https://www.irs.gov/your-account 
2. Select the blue box, Sign in to online account" in the Individual box
3. Select ID.me Create an account"
4. This will open a page titled, "ID.me + IRS - Create an ID.me account"
5. Select the blue button for "Create account" and follow the instructions. You will need your ID and a smart phone for easy account creation.

Once you have logged in, you can see your transcripts through the Tax Records section under an option, Transcripts. You can compare the incorrect W2 to the IRS transcripts for reference during your call with the IRS.

You will need your employer or payer’s information as well as your information ready for the IRS representative.

[sarkarp]

I will try to create that account and see. If this does not get resolved by the extension deadline, what should I do? Just file based off of my "correct" salary and then explain the situation if I am contacted for any discrepancy?

[KusyJ]

You have the option to file your return with the issued W2 if not resolved by the deadline. 

You would then file an amendment after the IRS has accepted and processed your return. It is important to wait for the return to be completely processed before filing an amendment.

For the amendment, you will need the corrected W2 or a Form 4852, Substitute for Form W2. The IRS should send you that form which allows you to file using your final paystub.

If you file your return with your “correct” account, the IRS could dispute your return based upon the W2 the IRS has on record. The IRS may insist through a letter or notice that you pay your taxes based on the original W2. Letters and Notices have deadlines for responses that may not give you enough time to correct the incorrect W2.