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Duplicate W2 Forms

MM1 — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 19:52:26 GMT

I am retired and in 2018 received deferred compensation from my previous employer.

This seems a little strange, but my previous employer mailed me five identical copies of my W2 form. Each came in a separate envelope. All of the boxes on each of the W2's contain the same information. The only difference between the W2's are in the employer use only box. My question is should I be concerned. All responses appreciated. Thank you

Re: Duplicate W2 Forms

NCperson — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 03:14:25 GMT

Suggest calling their HR department and ask about it

Re: Duplicate W2 Forms

KarenL — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 02:54:42 GMT

Yes, definitely contact the former employer to find out what happened in your situation. They may need to file Corrected W-2 forms with the IRS and state, if applicable. If they were produced and sent in error, it's possible the IRS received multiple as well. If that is the case, it's likely the IRS' computerized systems will not recognize this as an error.

Normally when multiple copies are sent it is due to multiple state earnings, or there are too many codes for Box 12 so it carries over onto another form. That said, I have seen legitimate cases where multiple W-2s were sent but the amounts were different. This can happen if a company is sold/transferred (or other reasons) and they close out certain accounts on a specified date.

It's best to know what is going on and take action if needed.

Re: Duplicate W2 Forms

MM1 — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 16:29:00 GMT

Thank you for your answer.

I share the same concerns that multiple duplicate W2's will raise a red flag with the IRS computers.

Yesterday, I contacted both the HR and Payroll departments at my previous employer. Their records show that only one W2 was created. I now have a case number on record and a person to call in the payroll department if needed.

Thanks again for your help.

Re: Duplicate W2 Forms

KarenL — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 22:14:52 GMT

You're welcome! Hope it gets resolved soon!