I can't use the TurboTax Deluxe worksheets because the lump sum payment wasn't received until 2019 (foe 2017-2018). So I downloaded IRS Pub. 915 and filled out all the worksheets by hand without too many problems. But stuck on question 20 on worksheet - I'm not sure what I should enter there. The instructions/examples are no help. Any help very appreciated. Thanks
Line 20 -- 'enter taxable benefits for the earlier year' is asking for the amount of taxable Social Security benefits as shown on the tax return for the year of the worksheet you are working on. Meaning, if you are filling out the worksheet for 2018, enter the amount of taxable Social Security benefits shown on your 2018 tax return (Form 1040 line 5b).
For 2017 it would be Form 1040 line 20b.
Line 20 -- 'enter taxable benefits for the earlier year' is asking for the amount of taxable Social Security benefits as shown on the tax return for the year of the worksheet you are working on. Meaning, if you are filling out the worksheet for 2018, enter the amount of taxable Social Security benefits shown on your 2018 tax return (Form 1040 line 5b).
For 2017 it would be Form 1040 line 20b.