If I have a W-2 and have entered information from it, why do I need a 1040a? What additional information is on it?

[tracydsides]

Just not clear what information is on the 1040a that isn’t on the w-2.

[xmasbaby0 · Accepted solution]

Some forms are not finalized so you cannot file.  The IRS has to finalize a number of forms and then approve the finalized forms in the TT software.  Many state forms are not finalized either.  What's the rush?  The IRS will not be accepting returns until January 29 at the earliest, so filing early will not get you a faster refund.  The earliest refunds will not be released until mid to late February.  You just have to wait for the forms to be ready.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1908854-forms-availability-table-for-turbotax-federal-products-exc...

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1908857-forms-availability-table-for-turbotax-state-except-busines...

[tracydsides]

Thank you! Was in a rush to get refund. Shocked to find that, for the first time ever I owe. Your response was helpful on a number of levels (‘returns not accepted until 29 January’). Thank you so much!

[SweetieJean]

1040-A is the actual tax return.

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-dft/f1040a--dft.pdf