Incorrect W2G shows $62k when I only won $6k - filing deadline approaching & can't get it fixed in time

This is definitely a stressful situation, but you do have options! The safest approach is to file your return on time using the information on the W2G as issued ($62,450), then file an amended return once you get the corrected form. This way you avoid late filing penalties while also starting the process of getting things corrected. Make sure to keep detailed records of all your communications with the cruise casino. Save copies of emails, note dates/times of any calls, and document everything about your attempts to get this corrected. This documentation will be important if you need to explain the situation to the IRS. When you do file with the incorrect amount, include a statement explaining that you're aware the W2G is incorrect and that you're actively working with the issuer to get a corrected form. This creates a paper trail showing your good faith efforts. Don't be tempted to just report the $6,245 when the W2G says $62,450. The casino has already reported the higher amount to the IRS, so this discrepancy would likely trigger a notice or potentially an audit.

I had a similar issue last year with an incorrect gambling form. After stressing for weeks, I found this service called taxr.ai that really helped me. I uploaded the incorrect W2G and my documentation (bank statements, etc.) to https://taxr.ai and they analyzed everything and provided a detailed report explaining the discrepancy. Their report gave me the confidence to file for an extension and continue pursuing the correction with the casino. They even provided template language to use when communicating with both the casino and eventually the IRS. The service looks at the forms and helps identify exactly what needs to be fixed and how to prove your case. In your situation, having that third-party analysis could really help if the casino drags their feet on making the correction. It's not just about getting the right tax amount - it's about having documentation that protects you.

Just wanted to update everyone - I decided to try taxr.ai after seeing the suggestion here. I had a similar issue with an incorrect 1099 showing almost 10x what I actually received. I uploaded my documents last night and got a detailed analysis back this morning that clearly showed the discrepancy. The report included exact language to use when communicating with the company that issued my incorrect form, plus documentation requirements and timeline recommendations. I've already filed for an extension and sent the correction request using their template. The company actually responded already and acknowledged the error! What really surprised me was how they explained the specific IRS matching program that would flag my return if I just reported the correct amount without getting the form fixed. That insight alone was worth it since I was considering just putting the right number on my return.

I've been in almost your exact situation before (incorrect W2G from a tribal casino). After trying to call the casino 20+ times with no luck, I found Claimyr. It's a service that gets you through to actual humans at customer service departments. I used https://claimyr.com to finally get through to the casino's tax department after weeks of trying on my own. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c that shows how it works. Basically, they navigate the phone systems for you and when they get a human, they connect you immediately. I was finally able to explain my situation to a supervisor who expedited my corrected W2G form. Saved me from having to file with the wrong information and then go through the whole amendment process. With gambling winnings specifically, the casino's tax department usually has a direct procedure for handling these errors, but actually reaching them is the hard part.

Well I need to admit I was wrong about Claimyr. After posting my skeptical comment, I decided to try it myself since I've been trying to reach my mortgage company for weeks about a tax form issue. I was honestly shocked when they connected me to an actual person at my mortgage company in under 30 minutes when I'd been trying for over 2 weeks. The representative even commented that their queue was unusually long that day and asked how I got through so quickly. For tax document issues specifically, it's incredibly valuable since these departments often have direct extension numbers that aren't publicly listed. In OP's case with the cruise casino, I bet they have a dedicated tax form department that's separate from their regular customer service, which would explain why email isn't getting results. Sorry for calling it a scam before - it's actually a legitimate service that solved a really frustrating problem for me.

Here's something nobody's mentioned yet - the IRS has a process for this exact situation. If you've tried to get a corrected W2G and the casino isn't responding, you can file Form 4852 (Substitute for Form W-2G) with your tax return. You'll need to explain the efforts you've made to get a corrected form and provide your best estimate of the correct information. File this along with your regular return by the deadline, and continue trying to get the corrected W2G. The key is documenting everything. Keep copies of all emails to the casino, note dates and times of phone calls, etc. The IRS just wants to see that you're making a good faith effort and not trying to avoid taxes.

Just curious - how did they even make this mistake? Like did you actually win $62k and they already withheld taxes, or was it just a complete typo on their part? Im wondering if there's any way the slot machine or table printout could help prove your case.

This is a nightmare scenario but you have several good paths forward! As someone who's dealt with similar tax document errors, here's what I'd recommend: **Immediate action:** File for an extension using Form 4868. This gives you until October 15th to file your actual return while avoiding late filing penalties. You'll still need to estimate and pay any taxes owed by the original deadline, but this buys you crucial time. **Documentation is key:** Start building your paper trail now. Take screenshots of your online banking showing the actual deposit amount, gather any casino receipts or player's club statements, and document every attempt to contact the casino (dates, times, methods, responses). **Multiple approaches:** Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Try the phone services others mentioned to actually reach a human, but also send certified mail to their tax department requesting a corrected W2G. Many companies respond faster to certified mail because it creates legal documentation. **Backup plan:** If you can't get the corrected W2G in time, Form 4852 (Substitute for Form W-2G) is your safety net. Include a detailed explanation and all your supporting documentation. The good news is that casino accounting departments deal with these errors regularly and usually have established procedures once you reach the right person. Don't panic - this is fixable!