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Level 1
posted Jan 21, 2021 3:32:17 PM

How do I file if I repaid unemployment the following year? (we actually sent the check in 2020 but it wasn't deposited until 2021)

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1 Best answer
Expert Alumni
Jan 21, 2021 4:53:09 PM

If you repaid it (benefits received and reported in 2020) in 2020, yes you can tell TurboTax you repaid it in 2020.  But if you do that, you can't indicate that you repaid those benefits next year also.  You will most likely get a form next year that will show the repayment.   As long as you don't enter the same repayment next year also, you should be fine.   But keep detailed records in case the IRS sends an inquiry based on the timing.  

6 Replies
Expert Alumni
Jan 21, 2021 3:57:12 PM

This depends. If you paid back benefits issued to you in 2019 and you are paying it in 2020, you fill need to file an amended 2019 return. In the amendment, you will need to edit your 1099G and underneath Box 1 of the form, you will see an entry for 2019 benefits repaid. Enter that amount. 

 

if you are repaying back 2020 benefits, you enter the 1099G form into the program and then you will notice where you would enter 2020 benefits repaid.  

Level 1
Jan 21, 2021 4:29:08 PM

I received unemployment benefits in 2020. The unemployment system stated that I was overpaid a certain amount. I sent the check in 2020 but they did not deposit it until 2021. Can I still put that I "repaid" in 2020?

Expert Alumni
Jan 21, 2021 4:53:09 PM

If you repaid it (benefits received and reported in 2020) in 2020, yes you can tell TurboTax you repaid it in 2020.  But if you do that, you can't indicate that you repaid those benefits next year also.  You will most likely get a form next year that will show the repayment.   As long as you don't enter the same repayment next year also, you should be fine.   But keep detailed records in case the IRS sends an inquiry based on the timing.  

Returning Member
Apr 2, 2022 9:43:43 AM

I received unemployment compensation during 2020 and 2021 from the State of Michigan to include Federal assistance PUA.  I received 1099-G for 2020 and declared/filled it with my 2020 state and federal taxes.  I received a 1099-G for 2021.  I have since been requested by the State of Michigan to repay 2020 and 2021 unemployment compensation.  I have not yet filled my 2021 state or federal taxes.  I have appealed the State decision to payback 2020 and 2021 unemployment compensation.  The appeal decision is unlikely to come before 2021 filing season ends.  Should I file to include 2021 unemployment compensation... and if I ultimately repay 2020 and 2021 unemployment compensation what should I do?  amend or claim this repayment on future tax returns etc...?  thank for your feedback

Expert Alumni
Apr 2, 2022 10:24:50 AM

If you received the income in 2021 and have not paid it back in 2021, then you would need to report the income on your 2021 taxes.    Even if the decision came before the end of tax season, you would still need to report the unemployment on your 2021 taxes.    When or if you have to pay back the unemployment, that is when you can report the repayment.

 

Returning Member
Apr 2, 2022 11:39:00 AM

thank you !