It depends. If the bonus came from your employer and your income from that employer is reported on a W-2, then it is the employer's responsibility to include it with your wages on your W-2.
If the bonus was received after the end of the tax year, you may actually have been paid in 2024, in which case it will be included on your W-2 for 2024.
If your employer reported your bonus on a 1099-MISC or a 1099-NEC you have two options to report the income.
Option 1:
- Search (upper right) > Type 1099misc or 1099nec > Click the Jump to... Link
- Enter the document received and you must indicate it did involve your services like a main job by answering yes.
- Likewise answer based on whether it involved an intent to earn money, which in your case it did.
- Using the 'Learn More' links may be helpful.
Option 2: This is correct, however your employer will not be pleased.
If you are still working for the same employer and you believe they should be paying the employer share of social security and medicare taxes then you have a second option to report the bonus on a W-2 by completing a conventional paper return and using substitute W-2 (Form 4852).
Here's how to fill one out:
- Open or continue your return and search for W-2. Select the Jump to link in the search results to go to the W-2 entry screen.
- Fill out your W-2 using the information from your last pay stub.
- Answer any questions until you get to Let's check for uncommon situations.
- Check the box next to Didn't get a W-2 and select Continue.
- On the Let's check if you need a substitute W-2 screen, select Yes then Continue.
- Answer the follow-up questions. Select Print to download and print your IRS Form 4852.
Note: Returns including Form 4852 can't be e-filed because of IRS regulations.
@colinfoster2009-
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