Print out the full forms from both and compare line by line. Tedious but thats the only way to be 100% sure

This is exactly why I always cross-check my return with at least two different software programs before filing! The $715 difference is significant enough that it's worth taking the time to figure out which one is correct. Since you already found the American Opportunity Credit issue, I'd also suggest double-checking any state tax calculations if applicable - sometimes the differences can compound between federal and state returns.

Just to clarify something important - whatever you claim, make sure you're getting receipts and the provider's tax ID number (EIN) or their Social Security number. The IRS requires you to report this information on Form 2441 when you claim the Child and Dependent Care Credit. I made this mistake once and had my return rejected. Had to go back to all my providers and get their tax info. Some smaller operations or individual instructors might be reluctant to provide this info (especially if they're not reporting the income), which is another indication they probably don't qualify as care providers for this credit.

Smart decision, Natasha! You're absolutely right to be cautious with tax claims. The distinction between care and instruction can be tricky, but the IRS is pretty strict about it. One thing that might help for future reference - if your daughter ever needs actual childcare (like during school breaks when you're working), look for programs that explicitly market themselves as "childcare" or "supervision" rather than just activities or classes. Even if they include fun activities like martial arts, the key is that their primary purpose is caring for children while parents work. Also, don't forget that your regular daycare expenses can be substantial for the credit - up to $3,000 per child or $6,000 for multiple children, with credit rates between 20-35% depending on your income. That's often a bigger benefit than trying to squeeze in borderline activities anyway.

Has anyone used Vanguard to set up their S Corp profit sharing plans? I've been looking at their small business options but not sure if they handle the more complex situations like this where there's both an LLC 401k and a separate S Corp plan.

This is a great question and I can see why it's confusing! I went through something very similar with my dental practice setup. One crucial thing to double-check is the timing for 2024 tax benefits. While the plan needs to be established by December 31, 2024, you actually have until your S Corp's tax filing deadline (including extensions, so potentially October 15, 2025) to make the actual contributions and still get the 2024 tax deduction. Also, don't feel embarrassed about asking your accountant again! This stuff is genuinely complex, and even tax professionals sometimes need to research the specifics. I'd recommend framing it as "I want to make sure I understand the implementation steps correctly" rather than asking for the explanation again. One practical tip: when you do set this up, make sure your S Corp payroll system can handle the timing of the profit sharing contributions. Some payroll providers need advance notice to process these correctly, especially if you're making the contribution near the filing deadline. I learned this the hard way when my payroll company needed three weeks to set up the proper coding! The separate entity approach really does work well for situations like yours - it gives you much more control over your retirement planning without getting tangled up in the LLC's existing arrangements.

Does anyone know what happens if your return is "still processing" for more than 45 days? I've heard the IRS pays interest after 45 days, but is that calendar days or business days?

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed on February 28th, accepted March 1st, and it's been stuck on "processing" for almost 3 weeks. I also claimed EITC this year for the first time, so that's probably why it's taking longer. What's really frustrating is that the IRS website doesn't give you any indication of what's actually happening or when you might expect an update. At least with package tracking you get some sense of progress! I've been checking the "Where's My Refund" tool obsessively but I'm going to try to limit myself to once a week like someone mentioned. The waiting is the worst part, especially when you're counting on that money. Hang in there - sounds like 21-25 days is pretty normal this year with the credits we claimed.

Late to this thread but if ur still looking for those W2s u should try checking the IRS website directly. The IRS actually gets copies of W2s from employers and sometimes u can access them through the "Get Transcript" feature on irs.gov if your employer actually submitted them to the IRS. Saved me last year when my W2 got lost in the mail!!

Another option if you're still stuck is to check if either ByteWave or DataCrunch use a third-party payroll provider like ADP, Paychex, or Workday. Many employees don't realize they can often access their W-2s directly through these systems even when HR isn't responding. Try logging into any payroll portals you used while employed - sometimes the W-2s are automatically posted there in January even if the company doesn't proactively send them out. You might also want to check if either company has been acquired or merged with another company, which could explain the communication issues. If all else fails and you need to file soon, I'd recommend the combination approach others mentioned: use the IRS contact services to get official pressure on your employers while simultaneously using your final paystubs to prepare your return as a backup. Having multiple strategies running parallel will give you the best chance of meeting filing deadlines without stress.