W2 Box 11 doesn't match Box 1. This generates an error.

I received a W2 for deferred compensation. On this W2 form, Box 1 is less than box 11 because a portion of my compensation was categorized as non-taxable. The discrepancy between box 1 and box 11 is generating and error in Turbotax. The error tells me box 1 and box 11 should match. How do I account for the non-taxable portion of the compensation to fix this error?

123

Employee Tax Expert

Feb 16, 2026 8:12:07 AM

It's completely normal for Box1 and Box 11 not to match on a W-2.

If TurboTax is giving you an error, it may be related to how the deferred compensation follow-up questions were answered.

Double-check the W-2 entry and any follow-up questions about nonqualified plans.

You can also delete your current W-2 and start over again using these steps:

To delete a W-2 from your return, please follow these steps:

Sign in to TurboTax (if you're not already signed in).
Click on the Take me to my Return button.
Click on the Federal Taxes tab.
Click on the Income and Wages tab.
Find the Wages and Salaries section and select Edit/Add.
Select the Delete (trash can icon) on the line listing the W-2 that is no longer applicable.

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W2 Box 11 doesn't match Box 1. This generates an error.