A possible error in a W2 with entry 12a (HSA contribution)

[fanito]

For some reason a $2 entry in my W2 (from a former employer) is causing me not be able to submit my taxes.

The entry is "W  2.00" in box 12.a

I don't recall having an HSA and a $2 contribution definitely seems incorrect and it is asking to fix the entries. My question is, how should I approach this?

- Ask the former employer to correct this? (if it needs correction) <- This probably will take too long

- Erase the entry in the W2 in TT (not sure if I can do this because I import it but I am sure it is doable but I don't want to trigger any audit for $2)

- Continue the questions in form 8889-T even though I never had a HDHP coverage

TIA

[RalphH1 · Accepted solution]

A $2 contribution on the W-2 for a non-existent HSA is a strange one, but given the amount, I’m thinking any of the three options you described would be fine

Asking them to fix it is the official way, of course. But even if they leave the $2 in and correct the letter code (assuming that’s the issue), it probably won’t change your tax result (and sort of seems like a big waste of everyone’s time). And that’s also likely to be the case if you continue through the Form 8889 section and file that form with your return, showing the excess.

So I recommend removing the entry from your W-2 (even if it was imported, you should be able to do that. Just look for the “Edit” link over to the right on the “Your W-2 info so far” screen). I can’t guarantee this, but I’d be shocked if the IRS contacted you (with their system flagging you as a very unenthusiastic HSA account holder who skipped the high deductible plan and just put in $2...). But more importantly, based on what you wrote, your tax return would be accurate in this case.

@fanito, (also based on what you wrote, and your attention to this detail) I predict that you’ll never, ever have any tax problems!

[fanito]

Thank you so much @RalphH1!