If W2 shows state tax $5235 why does Schedule A line 5a show $5291?

[mep1008]

I have one W2 with $5235 State Tax.  However, I see $5291 on Schedule A 5a?  I don't see any calculation to explain the difference.

[MaryK4]

The Schedule A Line 5A includes state and local tax withholding on Forms W-2, W-2G, or 1099-R. as well as state withholding on 1099-DIV, 1099-INT, 1099-G, 1099-MISC, and Schedules K-1, and mandatory contributions to state disability pension funds entered in either box 14 on the W-2 with the applicable code, or box 19 on the W-2.

[mep1008]

Thanks for the reply.  However, my return is very simple, just the w2. I have 5235 in box 17 and 14 and 19 are blank. The State return shows the correct amount, I am just concerned about the itemized deduction on 5a. To me, it should be 5235. I don’t know how it calculated the 5291 deduction. 

[JotikaT2 · Accepted solution]

Did you have any personal property taxes paid with your car registration fees? 

Or did you perhaps paid a balance due in 2020 from your 2019 income tax return when you filed your income taxes last year?

If so, these would be included in Schedule A as an itemized deduction.

[alizlin]

Having the same issue here

[VolvoGirl]

State and local taxes paid are:

any state withholding from your paychecks, retirement checks, unemployment checks, etc.

a state tax due you paid last year

any state estimated tax payments you made

any local taxes withheld on your checks like SDI in box 14 or 19 on your W2 - those will transfer automatically from your W2.

[alizlin]

This explains the gap I am seeing! Once I add up my state tax withholding AND the tax paid last year for the amount due in the previous year I match the amount being calculated in 5a.