Home / , / I was printing my W-2’s and noticed that in Box 12 we use option D for 401k contributions. The W-2 has boxes 12a-12d on it and it is printing in box 12a. Does this matter?

I was printing my W-2’s and noticed that in Box 12 we use option D for 401k contributions. The W-2 has boxes 12a-12d on it and it is printing in box 12a. Does this matter?

The code “D” that is associated with the 401k contribution does not have any bearing on the position in box 12 that the information prints. From the IRS W-2/W-3 instructions:

“Box 12 – Codes. Complete and code this box…. Note that the codes do not relate to where they should be entered for boxes 12a-12d on Form W-2.”

If you wish more explanation regarding printing of your W-2 information, there is a copy of the W-2/W-3 instructions in pdf format located in the IRS forms folder inside the Payroll folder on the hard drive of your computer, or you can download a copy from the IRS web site.