I received a lump sum payment from Social Security in 2017. Why am I being taxed again on it for 2018?

[AnnetteB · Accepted solution]

If it was received in 2018, but the payment was made for 2017 benefits, then you enter it as part of your 2018 tax return.  That does not necessarily mean that you will be taxed on the lump sum. 

If you actually received the lump sum payment during the 2017 calendar year, but it is reported as if you received it during the 2018 calendar year, then you need to contact the Social Security Administration for an explanation and correction to your statement.