Has anyone successfully done this using regular tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block? I have my original 2018 return I did through TurboTax but not sure if I can use it to create the 1040X or if I need to start from scratch.

I went through this exact situation last year with a missing W-2 from 2018! Here's what I learned that might help: First, don't panic - it's really not as complicated as it looks. The key is being methodical about it. Make sure you have your original 2018 return handy and the missing W-2. One thing I wish I'd known earlier: if the missing W-2 results in you owing additional tax, you'll want to pay that amount when you file the 1040X to minimize interest charges. The interest runs from the original due date (April 15, 2019) regardless of when you actually file the amendment. Also, keep copies of EVERYTHING. Your university will probably want proof that you filed the amendment, and with current IRS processing times being 20+ weeks, having documentation that you submitted it will be crucial for your financial aid office. The explanation section (Part III) doesn't need to be elaborate - just clearly state "Amendment due to missing W-2 from [employer name] not included in original filing" and attach the W-2 copy. Don't let the form intimidate you - most people overthink it. You've got this!

Maybe I'm paranoid but I've had my identity stolen before and it was a NIGHTMARE to fix. I wouldn't give copies of my SS card to ANYONE, not even my mom lol. There's zero reason they need a copy vs just the number.

Trust your instincts - this is definitely not standard practice and you're right to be concerned. I've been preparing taxes for over 15 years and have never required clients to provide physical copies of their Social Security cards. The SSN itself is all that's needed for tax preparation and filing. Your accountant's explanation about "security purposes" is actually backwards - keeping copies of SS cards creates MORE security risk, not less. If their office is breached or files are stolen, your most sensitive identity documents could be compromised. I'd recommend having a direct conversation with your accountant about this. Ask specifically why they need copies rather than just the numbers, and what their document security protocols are. A legitimate professional should be able to explain their reasoning and should be willing to work with you on alternatives, like verifying the cards in person without keeping copies. If they're unwilling to budge on this unusual request without a valid explanation, that might be a red flag about their practices in general.

Cycle 05 updates are different from cycle 20 in a key way. With 05, your transcript typically updates Thursday night/Friday morning, whereas cycle 20 updates daily. If you verified 2 weeks ago on cycle 05, you've probably missed 1-2 update windows already. Compare this to 2023 when post-verification updates were taking 3-4 weeks due to backlog. This year seems faster based on what I'm seeing across different forums.

I'm also cycle 05 and verified about 10 days ago through ID.me. Reading through everyone's experiences here, it seems like the timing really varies even within the same cycle. What's been helpful for me is checking my transcript early Friday mornings since that's when cycle 05 typically updates. I've noticed that some people are getting their 846 codes faster this year compared to 2023, but like Mateo mentioned, I'm trying not to get my hopes up too much. Has anyone else noticed if the method of verification (phone vs ID.me) actually makes a difference in processing speed? The IRS agent I spoke with wasn't clear on that detail.

Have you considered using a payroll service that handles all your 940/941 filings automatically? I switched to Gusto last year and they take care of all the filings and deposits for my S-corp. Yes, there's a monthly fee, but the time saved and peace of mind is totally worth it when you factor in how much your time is worth per hour.

Just wanted to point out that if you're mailing the forms but paying electronically through EFTPS, the IRS should be able to match your payment to your account even if there's some delay with the paper forms. I've been doing this for years with my small business and never had an issue. The key is making sure your EFTPS payment has all the correct information (form number, tax period, EIN).

One thing to consider that nobody's mentioned - the bank account situation. When I formed my S Corp, I was surprised at how much documentation banks wanted to open a business account. You'll need: - Articles of incorporation - EIN confirmation letter from IRS - Corporate bylaws (or operating agreement if LLC→S Corp) - Sometimes board meeting minutes showing authority to open accounts Also, some banks are MUCH easier to work with than others for small business S Corps. I tried Chase first and the process was a nightmare. Switched to a local credit union and had everything set up in 45 minutes.

Great question about S Corp conversion! I made this transition two years ago when my consulting income hit $450k and it was absolutely worth it. Here are some practical insights from my experience: **State Choice**: Between Colorado and Minnesota, Colorado generally has more favorable business tax rates. But since you're spending significant time in both states, you'll likely need to file returns in both regardless of where you incorporate. Consider consulting with a tax professional who understands multi-state tax issues. **Professional Team**: You'll definitely want to upgrade from just a tax preparer. I'd recommend: - A CPA experienced with S Corps (not just general tax prep) - Payroll service like Gusto or ADP (makes quarterly payroll much easier) - QuickBooks or similar for clean bookkeeping - Consider an attorney for initial setup if your situation is complex **Reasonable Salary**: For $520k revenue in tech consulting, depending on your profit margins, a salary in the $180-220k range would likely be defensible. The IRS looks at what someone with your skills and responsibilities would earn as an employee. Your CPA can help determine the sweet spot. **Additional Benefits**: Beyond SE tax savings, you'll get better retirement plan options (Solo 401k with higher contribution limits), potential health insurance deductions, and cleaner business/personal separation. One tip: Start the process now if you want S Corp treatment for 2024. The paperwork and IRS processing can take time, and you don't want to miss the election deadline. The administrative overhead is real but manageable with the right systems. At your income level, the tax savings should easily justify the additional costs and complexity.