I have two different lenders1098's with the incorrect ( box 2) outstanding balance amounts.

[WilHen02]

There are no sales or purchase activities on either property. Does it really matter? Worth my time to attempt to get the correct amount issued?

[DMarkM1 · Accepted solution]

It depends.  For tax purposes, if you are itemizing, the box two amounts are used to figure the average loan balance on your property.  If your average loan balances exceed certain thresholds (typically $750,000) your mortgage interest deduction may be limited. 

Keep in mind also the amount in that box is the balance on the 1st day of the tax year (1 Jan 2022) or 1st day for the loan if taken out during the tax year.  

So if you are using the standard deduction, the form 1098 doesn't matter.  If itemizing, do the total loan balances exceed $750,000? If not, then those box amounts will not limit your interest deduction.  

If you find that your itemized interest deduction is being limited then you need to get the correct numbers for your return. 

Outside of the tax matter you should get with the lender(s) to determine what the numbers should be.