A Control Number (box D) is used by many payroll departments to uniquely identify a W-2 in their system. If your W-2 doesn't have one, it's no big deal. You can simply leave it blank.
If you get errors when attempting to e-file with an empty box D, just enter any number in this format: 5 digits, space, 5 digits (for example, 12345 67890). The IRS doesn't care what's in box D because its use by payroll departments is optional.
On the other hand, if you're trying to import your W-2 and you are asked for a Control Box D, and you don’t have one, select Skip import and manually enter your W-2. You won't be able to import using the 5 digits + space + 5 digit solution for e-filing.
I did not spend $50 on Turbo Tax to have to manually put in my information. This is one of the perks of Turbo Tax. I could have spent the money on H & R Block. THIS NOT ACCEPTABLE!!?!!??
The company that you work for has to release your information to be downloaded. Not all companies allow this or have payroll companies that have this capability.
@LisaThess wrote:
I did not spend $50 on Turbo Tax to have to manually put in my information. This is one of the perks of Turbo Tax. I could have spent the money on H & R Block. THIS NOT ACCEPTABLE!!?!!??
Why do you think that tax preparation software should know what the Control Number is on your W-2?
The Document Control Number, the Employer Identification Number and the dollar amount from box 1 of the W-2 is required to import the W-2. You should have received a copy of your W-2 from your employer with all that information.