Tax Transcripts vs Tax Forms

[Steve & Erma 36]

Last year when we uploaded to the NVC, I uploaded the tax transcripts for the previous years and then my 2022 Tax 1040 Return and W2 (I had just filed). We are getting ready for our interview, and I have now since uploaded my 2022 and 2023 tax transcripts to the CEAC. Because of the numerous lists going around that state you have to have your returns, W2's and transcripts my wife wants me to upload our 2023 taxes and my W2's which I don't believe are necessary because all of the info from the 1040 and W2 is in the transcript, and they are not going to ask for them. To make matters worse I don't have a copy of the signed tax return just the filled out one without our signatures on them. We have time and I can resign them and scan them but... do I really need to? My understanding is they may ask to see a copy of any uploaded document. If I have my transcript uploaded, then I have the required document and that would be the only thing they would ask for... they wouldn't ask for the 1040 or the W2 since they have all that info in the transcript, and it isn't uploaded. I also understand that they would rather have the transcript and not the 1040/W2.

Make it make sense for me. Sorry for the ramble.

[top_secret 2,421]

A transcript superseeds a return and is the prefered document so it should be fine.  Usually they never ask for a paper one anyway but it's good to still bring.  When my wife was interviewed the consul made a remark that makes me think he was viewing what had been submitted to CEAC on his computer in real time during the interview. 

[hunny&me 274]

Last 3 years of transcript (21,22,23) and the last W2 (2023) to be uploaded in CEAC and have on hand (just email and print).  This has been the normal ask of since we processed in 2022.  A lot of people were sent out to upload those 4 docs (expensive printing/internet outside embassy, plus immigrant may not have their phone), then if still early to come back.   Some people were asked only the latest.  It is still best to provide the last 3 years and last W2, to show continuous income to support our beneficiary.  Just sharing our experience (we had a group chat then).

[Steve & Erma 36]

15 hours ago, hunny&me said:

Last 3 years of transcript (21,22,23) and the last W2 (2023) to be uploaded in CEAC and have on hand (just email and print).  This has been the normal ask of since we processed in 2022.  A lot of people were sent out to upload those 4 docs (expensive printing/internet outside embassy, plus immigrant may not have their phone), then if still early to come back.   Some people were asked only the latest.  It is still best to provide the last 3 years and last W2, to show continuous income to support our beneficiary.  Just sharing our experience (we had a group chat then).

 

I uploaded the W2's for 2023 and the transcripts for 2020-2023 (did our NVC last year). I have a copy of the completed 1040 without our signatures on it because I sent the one with our signatures to the IRS without scanning them like an idiot. Not like I could send them the original with the signatures. Do you think I should upload the 1040 without signatures or just not upload it?

[top_secret 2,421]

4 hours ago, Steve & Erma said:

I uploaded the W2's for 2023 and the transcripts for 2020-2023 (did our NVC last year). I have a copy of the completed 1040 without our signatures on it because I sent the one with our signatures to the IRS without scanning them like an idiot. Not like I could send them the original with the signatures. Do you think I should upload the 1040 without signatures or just not upload it?

 

Transcripts should be fine.  Super easy for the consul. They know exactly what they are looking for.  Page 2 "Total Income".  The only reason to submit the actual 1040 is if the transcript is not available for some reason.  

[hunny&me 274]

9 hours ago, Steve & Erma said:

 

I uploaded the W2's for 2023 and the transcripts for 2020-2023 (did our NVC last year). I have a copy of the completed 1040 without our signatures on it because I sent the one with our signatures to the IRS without scanning them like an idiot. Not like I could send them the original with the signatures. Do you think I should upload the 1040 without signatures or just not upload it?

No need for the 1040 since you already have the transcripts.  I think she is good to go!  Blessings to you both!