<p>Hi, </p>
<p>Great forum here! I'm filling out the CSS Online Profile, and I had a question about estimating my 2013 and 2104 wages - do I use my wages prior to my pre-tax deductions (for 401k), or can i use my post-401 contribution deduction wages?</p>
<p>I think that by “wages,” they’re asking for your W-2 box 1 number, which does not include employee contributions to a 401(k) account. Those contributions are asked about elsewhere on the form.</p>
<p>I can’t find a definitive answer to this question anywhere and it sure would be nice to have. This question has come up in several threads on CC but nobody has given a knowledgeable answer. If you put down the estimated next year’s income BEFORE 401(k) contribution, how does the college know not to add the contribution back in when it is included in the PF-115 untaxed income line? I wrote to College Board to ask and will post their reply here if I get a helpful one.</p>
<p>I think they are asking for Adjusted Gross Income but I cannot find that written anywhere.</p>
<p>Here is the answer I just received from the College Board:</p>
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<p>Hello Requin,</p>
<h2>Thank you for your inquiry. When responding to question PF-100A we are asking that you report your taxable income. Your taxable income is your Gross Income minus pre-tax contributions. This amount can be found in box 1 of your W-2 form or line 7 of your 1040 form.</h2>
<p>I would assume that this information also applies to the entries for PI-105 and PI-155, estimated 2013 income.</p>