How to Send W-2s via E-File
You want to try filing your taxes online -- no photocopying, no tiny squares to fill in by hand, no envelope-licking and running to the post office at the last minute. But what about your W-2s? How are you going to get those to the IRS? Can you file online without a scanner?
Attaching W-2s -- indeed, all necessary data and tax forms -- is easy, using the Fillable Forms accessible through the IRS.gov website. In addition, filing online is absolutely free for taxpayers with incomes below a certain threshold, $58,000 in 2010, among other requirements.
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Instructions
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Collect W-2 forms and have them ready when you begin to e-file. (For other items you may need in order to e-file, see the "Individual E-File Checklist" under "Resources.")
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After filling out your tax forms under the "STEP 1" tab (near the top of the page), go to the tab marked "STEP 2. E-File Your Tax Forms."
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On the first line under "Required Information for Electronic Filing," click the "Add" button to add a W-2.
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Fill in the electronic W-2 form, exactly as your paper W-2 form appears. When you are finished, click "Done with this form."
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If you have more than one W-2, click the "Add" button again to attach additional W-2s, and repeat the process.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are having a professional who is an authorized IRS e-file provider prepare your taxes, simply provide him with the paper W-2 forms; he can file them electronically for you.
If you are missing a W-2, contact your employer. If you are still unable to obtain a copy of your W-2 promptly, you may contact the Internal Revenue Service at (800) 829-1040. You must file on time even if you have not received a W-2; in that case, substitute Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement. For more details, see "What to Do If You Are Missing a W-2" under "Resources."
References
Resources
- Photo Credit tax forms image by Chad McDermott from Fotolia.com
