How to Correct an Incorrect Social Security Number on a W-2 Form

Most W-2 Forms are completed by computer programs that have all the correct information about each employee at a business. In some cases, human error in data entry can result in the wrong information on the W-2. If you notice your Social Security number is wrong, you need to know how to correct it so that the IRS and your state government will accept your returns and credit your Social Security and Medicare payments as well as your taxes. If you are an employer, you must know how to correct this problem as well.

Things You'll Need

• W-2c (if you are the employee)
• W-3c (if you are the employer)

Instructions

1. Contact your company's payroll department to correct your Social Security number. Your employer will complete a W-2c form, which is a corrected W-2 form. This will be the form you will use to file your yearly income taxes.

2. Visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website for the W-2c Form if you are an employer (see Resources). Employers complete the top portion of the W-2c if they are only changing the Social Security number or the name. If they are changing dollar amounts, they will complete the entire W-2c form.

3. File the W-2c forms and a W-3c form with the SSA and give a copy to the employee. The W-2c and W-3c forms are similar to the original forms sent by employers, but the "c" alerts the SSA that there are changes to some information on an original W-2 form.

Tips & Warnings

• Always look at your payroll check stub to make sure the company is using the correct Social Security number. If not, ask them to correct it right away.

• Never continue to use an incorrect Social Security number. It is a federal crime if you knowingly use the incorrect information.

Resources

• Social Security Administration