What is a W2 Form?
A W2 form is an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) form that reports an employee’s wages, tips, and other compensation for a calendar year. It is also used to report taxes withheld from an employee’s wages by their employer. The form is sent to the employee to use when filing their taxes. In addition, employers are required to send the IRS a copy of the form.
Where Can I Find My W2?
For current employees, employers are required to provide employees with their W2s by January 31 each year. The W2s will be sent to the employee via mail or made available electronically through the employer’s payroll software. If you’re a current employee and haven’t received your W2 by the end of January, it’s best to contact your employer directly to get a duplicate copy.
How to Get a W2 From a Previous Employer
If you’re a former employee and need to get a copy of your W2, the process is slightly different. The former employer must be contacted directly in order to obtain a copy. This can be done in person, via mail, or over the phone. It’s important to note that the former employer is not required by law to provide a duplicate copy, so they may charge a fee.
How to Get a W2 Online From a Previous Employer
Fortunately, many employers now offer online access to W2s for current and former employees. This can be a much faster way to access your W2, as you can get it within minutes. To access your W2 online, you will need your employer’s website and your employee ID. You may also need to enter your Social Security number. Once you’ve located your W2 online, you can download or print out a copy for your records.
What If I Can’t Get My W2?
If you’re unable to get a copy of your W2 from your former employer, the IRS can provide you with a substitute form. To request a substitute form, you will need to complete IRS Form 4852 and submit it to the IRS. This form is used to estimate your income and tax withholding for the year. Once you have completed the form, you will need to mail it to the IRS and await their response.
Conclusion
It’s important to keep track of your W2s each year, as they are required to file your taxes. If you’ve worked for a former employer, you may need to contact them directly to get a copy of your W2. Fortunately, many employers now offer online access to W2s for current and former employees. If you’re unable to get a copy of your W2 from your former employer, the IRS can provide you with a substitute form. Keep in mind that the substitute form is only an estimate, and it’s best to get an accurate copy of your W2 if possible.
