How Do I Get a Past W2 Form?

Use your W2 to complete your tax return.

The IRS requires your employer to send out W2s by the end of January each year. If the due date has passed and you have not received your W2, the IRS suggests that you contact your employer and request it. Furthermore, the IRS requires your employer to keep employment tax records, such as W2 statements, for a minimum of four years. Therefore, depending on the year of the W2, your employer should have a copy. But if you are unable to get your W2 from your employer, you can obtain it otherwise.

Things You'll Need

• Form 4506-T
• Form 4506

Instructions

1. Search for Form 4506-T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return) online, or via the IRS website. The IRS can provide you with a free transcript of past W2s for the past 10 years. Complete Form 4506-T by typing directly into the computerized copy and then printing it. Or, you can print it and write legibly when completing it.

   If you are requesting a W2 that dates back to more than four years prior, you must complete and attach another 4506-T form. Specifically, the form allows you to request W2 transcripts for no more than four years at a time. Mail or fax the completed form to your state’s IRS location listed on the form. It can take the IRS a week or two to process your request.

2. Use Form 4506 (Request for Copy of Tax Return), if you want an actual copy of the W2. You can perform a general online search for Form 4506 or obtain it via the IRS website. Form 4506 enables you to get a copy of your entire tax return, that is, the original Form 1040 and all attachments, including your W2. You can request tax returns for eight years at a time using Form 4506; a fee of $57 applies to each tax year. Mail the completed form and your payment to your state’s IRS location indicated on the form. It can take the IRS up to 60 calendar days to process your request.

3. Call the IRS (see the Resources section) to request a transcript of your past W2. The IRS can take your request for a free W2 transcript over the phone. But you must provide identification information, such as your name, filing status and Social Security number.

Tips & Warnings

• If you used a tax preparer to prepare your tax return, call him to request a copy of your W2.

References

• IRS: Publication 15--Main Content
• IRS: Prior Year(s) Form W2 (How to Get a Copy)

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Form 4506-T
• Form 4506
• IRS Telephone Assistance