Would this still work if it's been like over a year since I worked there? I have a similar issue but from a job I had in 2023 and I just realized I never received one of my W-2s when organizing for this year's taxes.

Yes, it should still work! Most payroll systems keep your documents available for several years. I was able to log into my ADP account almost 2 years after leaving a job and still access all my tax documents. If you can't remember which payroll system they used, try contacting any former coworkers who might know. Even if you don't have login credentials anymore, these services usually have account recovery options using your SSN and personal info to verify your identity.

How much was the penalty when you got caught? I'm trying to decide if it's worth the hassle of tracking down a W-2 from a job where I only made like $1200 total.

Thanks for this info! I did file Form 1120-S for 2021 and issued myself W-2s, so sounds like I've been operating consistent with S-corp status. I was just confused about whether I could put January 1 as the effective date when my LLC wasn't technically formed until March. I'll definitely check Box D1 and explain the situation in Part III as you suggested. Do you think I should attach anything else to the form when I send it in? Like copies of my 2021 tax filings to prove I've been operating as an S-corp?

Yes, you should absolutely attach copies of your 2021 Form 1120-S and any W-2s you issued yourself as supporting documentation. This demonstrates to the IRS that you've been operating consistently as an S-corporation. Also consider attaching a brief cover letter referencing the IRS notice you received and explaining your intention to address this with the late-filed election. I'd also recommend sending it certified mail so you have proof of submission. The IRS can be slow to process these, so having documentation of when you submitted everything can be important if they follow up again before processing your election.

Good point! I made this mistake last year and they rejected my filing, adding another 2 months to the process. You can download the current version directly from irs.gov rather than using any forms that might be outdated on tax preparation websites.

Thanks for mentioning documentation! I think I have all my 1098-Ts from school but not sure about textbook receipts from 3 years ago. Will the IRS reject my amendment if I'm missing some of the receipts?

The IRS won't automatically reject your amendment if you're missing some receipts, but you should be prepared to substantiate your claims if they ask questions. For textbooks, if you don't have the original receipts, look for credit card statements, bank statements, or emails confirming your purchases. For education credits, the 1098-T is the most important document, as it shows your enrollment and amounts paid to the institution. The IRS is more likely to focus on verifying that information rather than every individual book purchase. Do your best to create a reasonable estimate of your textbook costs if you can't find all receipts, and keep notes on how you calculated those amounts.

Does the IRS automatically add the interest or do you have to request it specifically? And do you know what the current interest rate is?

Thanks for the solid advice! For the quarterly taxes, is it just a flat 30% of income or does it vary based on what expenses I've had that quarter? Also, do most banks offer business accounts to sole proprietors or do I need an LLC first?

The quarterly tax amounts should ideally be based on your actual profit for that quarter (income minus expenses), but many contractors use a simplified approach of setting aside a percentage of gross income to make it more manageable. The 30% is just a rule of thumb - your actual percentage might be higher or lower depending on your state tax situation and deductions. Most banks absolutely offer business accounts to sole proprietors - you don't need an LLC first. You'll typically need your Social Security number and possibly a DBA ("doing business as") registration if you're operating under a business name that's not your personal name. I'd recommend shopping around as some banks offer free business checking while others charge monthly fees.

Can confirm this 100%. I broke my wrist in a bike accident last year and couldn't code for 8 weeks. No income coming in but rent and bills still due. The disability insurance I had grumbled at paying for? Saved me from emptying my emergency fund.

Do these ghost preparers ever get caught? Seems like they're scamming a lot of people and the IRS should be all over this.

Yes, the IRS does prosecute these preparers when they catch them, but it's challenging because many operate informally through social media and don't leave much of a paper trail. They often use temporary contact information, prepaid phones, and don't properly sign returns as preparers. The IRS has been conducting a nationwide crackdown on fraudulent preparers, with some high-profile prosecutions resulting in prison time and heavy fines. However, they can't catch everyone, which is why they focus on educating taxpayers about the risks. Remember, even if a preparer completes your return, YOU are legally responsible for all information on it and any resulting penalties.

That's true, but most people making $78K like OP wouldn't qualify for EITC, right? I think there's an income limit that's much lower.