How to Access a W-2 Online

When it is time to do your tax return you must make sure you have your current W-2 form. This form comes in the mail sometime in January for the previous year. If your W-2 gets lost in the mail, you still must do your taxes. Access your W-2 online so you have it when you need it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Find out if your employer participates in allowing access of your W-2 online. Check with the Human Resource Department or whoever is in charge of payroll and tax information.

2. Go to the website that your employer provides so you can access your W-2 online. There are several companies that provide this service so ask your company which one they use.

3. Create an account on this website. Usually you will be asked to use your social security number as your user ID. Choose a password or use the password that your employer provided to you.

4. Login to your account. Sites will vary slightly but most will have an icon or button saying click here to access your W-2. Follow the on screen instructions for the site you are using.

5. View your W-2 online. You will also be able to print it out so make as many copies as you need for your tax return.

Tips & Warnings

• Online access to your W-2 means your social security and other sensitive personal information will be available online. If you are not comfortable with this, do not participate in this program and ask your employer to send your W-2 through the mail to you.