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New Member
posted Apr 9, 2024 2:58:32 PM

Box 18 blank but Box 19 and Box 20 have 5 entries.

Box 18 is blank; but Box 19 and Box 20 have 5 entries. What do I enter into box 18 as it won't let me leave it blank?

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2 Best answers
Employee Tax Expert
Apr 9, 2024 3:22:27 PM

What state is this? Box 18 represents wages, tips, and compensation that is subject to local taxes (look at box 5). If you have 5 different box 20 entries, add separate rows for each. 

 

[Edited 4/9/24 3:47pm pst]

Employee Tax Expert
Apr 9, 2024 3:45:49 PM

The IRS does not require Box 18 to be completed and so many employers leave it off.

 

I'm going to edit my earlier reply and suggest that you use Box 5 Medicare wages and tip amount instead, so you can move forward in the software. It could be the same numbers as Boxes 1/16 or not depending whether you have pre-tax items. 

3 Replies
Employee Tax Expert
Apr 9, 2024 3:22:27 PM

What state is this? Box 18 represents wages, tips, and compensation that is subject to local taxes (look at box 5). If you have 5 different box 20 entries, add separate rows for each. 

 

[Edited 4/9/24 3:47pm pst]

New Member
Apr 9, 2024 3:30:50 PM

KY

5 entries in Box 19

5 entries in Box 20

 

Will not let me move on unless I leave 18 - 20 blank or enter wages into Box 18.

 

So you're saying enter what's Wages/State Wages. (Box 1 and Box 16)

Employee Tax Expert
Apr 9, 2024 3:45:49 PM

The IRS does not require Box 18 to be completed and so many employers leave it off.

 

I'm going to edit my earlier reply and suggest that you use Box 5 Medicare wages and tip amount instead, so you can move forward in the software. It could be the same numbers as Boxes 1/16 or not depending whether you have pre-tax items.