This is one in a continuing series on the 2009 Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, which employers must generally furnish to employees no later than February 1, 2010. Forms mailed on the due date are considered furnished if properly addressed. Employers unable to meet that deadline may file a request for extension of time to furnish the forms. Today we review Box 9, advance EIC payment.

Box 9 shows the amount of any advance EIC (earned income credit) payment paid to the employee. Employees must meet four criteria and file Form W-5, Earned Income Credit Advance Payment Certificate in order to receive advance EIC payments. For 2009, the maximum advance EIC was $1,826. Employees entitled to additional EIC are eligible to receive it when filing Form 1040, US Individual Income Tax Return.

The next topic in this continuing series will be Box 10, dependent care benefits. Contact Vision Payroll with any questions on the 2009 Form W-2.