A W-2 is a tax form that reports the wages you earned as an employee and the taxes withheld from your paycheck during the year.
Your employer sends a copy to you, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and your state (if applicable).
What information is on a W-2?
Your W-2 shows:
Your total wages
Federal, state, and local taxes withheld
Social Security and Medicare wages and taxes
Your employer’s information
You’ll use this form to report employment income when you file your tax return.
When should I receive my W-2?
Employers are required to send W-2s by January 31, 2025.
You might receive it:
By mail, or
Electronically through your employer’s payroll system
If you worked more than one job, you should receive a W-2 from each employer.
Can I file without my W-2?
No. You shouldn’t file using your last pay stub.
Pay stubs don’t always match the final W-2 totals, which can lead to errors or IRS notices. It’s best to wait until your official W-2 arrives.
What if my W-2 is wrong?
If something looks incorrect, reach out to your employer and ask for a corrected form called a W-2C.
If you’ve already filed and your return was accepted, you may need to file an amended return to fix the information.
Didn’t get your W-2?
If your W-2 hasn’t arrived:
Check your employer’s payroll or HR portal
Contact your employer directly
If needed, request a Wage and Income Transcript from the IRS once it’s available
Key takeaway
If you’re an employee, your W-2 reports your wages and tax withholding. Employers must send it by January 31, and waiting for it helps you avoid filing errors.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, financial, accounting, or other advice. Rules and regulations vary by location and are subject to change, so please consult with an expert if you need advice specific to you.
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