If I file using my last pay stub, do I have to complete the 12a and 12b boxes?

[tater4540]

In the past, I have filed with my last pay stub.  I noticed after receiving my 2014 W-2, there were amounts in box 12a and 12b that I didn't report.  Can I still file my 2015 taxes using my last pay stub, or do I need to wait for my W-2 and report those amounts?

[joylewis84]

I unfortunately I filed my taxes with my last paystub this year on 1/25. It's a couple of dollars off from my w2(just received it yesterday). I was wondering what will happen? I should have waited. But its done. But I sometimes use my last paystub without anything happening.

[bluedeb]

@joylewis84 You can file an amended return.  You want your return to be accurate & the IRS gets copies of all W-2's.

If your return has been accepted you cannot change anything to your original.  To correct your W-2 information you would need to go through the amendment interview.  Amended returns must be mailed.

The amendment form will not be finalized until February 11th (subject to change) so you cannot file until then.  Also, the IRS suggests you wait until your original return is fully processed before you amend.  Refund received or if taxes owed, the payment has cleared.


See the following on amending a return.

<a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3288565">https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3288565</a>

[joylewis84]

@bluedeb Thank you so much for your answer it really helps. Im just so nervous that I will not get my tax refund.

[bluedeb]

You will still get your refund, the IRS may adjust your return if they compare your W-2 income on your return to the W-2 copy they receive.  If they don't adjust your return, then once you get your refund, go ahead and amend your return. Don't worry, allot of people have to amend their return.

[joylewis84]

@bluedeb thank you much.

[bluedeb]

Your welcome!

[bluedeb · Accepted solution]

You should never file without your W-2.  You need to report all items on your W-2.  A paystub does not have all the accurate information needed.  The IRS gets copies of all W-2's and could come back to you about missing or wrong information. Wait for your W-2.

The IRS is not even accepting returns until January 19th. You most likely will receive your W-2 by then.

[re2boys]

And in some circumstances, you could have cheated yourself.  If one of the boxes was coded D, indicating retirement plan contributions,  and your income was below a certain level, you may have missed out on the Saver's Credit.  The program would have caught this if you had entered it and you were eligible.

Bad idea to due taxes with incomplete information.