Unwanted W-2

[TomEtomerick]

Hi - I retired mid-2019.  My previous employer was hit with a class-action law suit over not having paid some employees for what should have been a break or lunch break.  I never felt this applied to me.  However, in May I received a check for $5.94 - that I never cashed or deposited (I still have it).  Now I received a W-2 for $8.46 (box 1).  I never wanted this and called the employer's payroll and explained my situation.  They report they are planning to send out another check to those who did not deposit their checks because it is now past 180 days of the first check.  I informed them I do not want it and I want the W-2 withdrawn.  The employer reports they probably cannot do that.  I did not deposit this check and do not want it to be part of my federal IRS tax submission, but if my former employer submits it (which they plan to do), this will create a red flag for me.  How do I handle this situation when I have not and will not deposit the check?  Thank you - TomE

[xmasbaby0]

Why make a big deal about entering the little W-2 on your tax return----or did you already e-file?

[TomEtomerick]

It's not the money.  The problem is that it will be a red flag per the IRS because the employer will file they paid me per the W-2, which can then lead to an audit - at total hassle.   I'm looking for a way to withdraw the W-2 - how can that be accomplished?

[xmasbaby0]

I think you are stressing out over nothing---or at least stressing out over less than ten dollars.   If the former employer sent the W-2 to the IRS then the IRS will look for it on your tax return.   And the IRS will not know or care if you cashed the little check.   I say enter the W-2 on your return and stop worrying.

With all the child tax credit issues and stimulus issues, etc. etc. etc it is highly unlikely that your W-2 for under $10 is going to trigger a time consuming audit.

If the employer paid you they are required to issue the W-2---so they are complying with the law.