Why did my employer put my dental and vision premiums in box 14 on my w2?

[Opus 17]

You will have to ask them.  Box 14 is a free memo box, the IRS has no requirements for box 14 and an employer can put anything they want there.  Some states have requirements for items in box 14 that may affect your state tax return.

The IRS requires that employers report the value of "health insurance" in box 12 with code DD.  This is the cost paid by the employer plus any cost paid by you.  However, it is optional as to whether the value of dental and vision coverage should be included with "health coverage" under code DD.  

That still doesn't explain why the employer put dental and vision in box 14.  Maybe they are just letting you know how much they paid toward your coverage, in addition to the health insurance in box 12 code DD.  (Remember that your total compensation from your employer -- what they pay to keep you around -- includes your gross salary plus all your benefits.).  If you really want to know you need to ask them.  

[Mike9241]

is the w-2 from an S-corporation for which you are a 2% shareholder or more. if so your wages should have ben grossed up for these amounts and then you take a deduction on your 1040 for S-Corporation shareholder medical insurance.