How to Get a Copy of a W2 Form
The Internal Revenue Service requires individual taxpayers to file their tax returns by April 15 of each year. The W2 has critical information needed to file the tax return, such as wages earned and taxes withheld for the year. Though the IRS allows you to file your tax return via Form 4852 if you are unable to obtain your W2, it encourages you to take certain steps before resorting to this method. You can obtain a copy of your W2 form, even if it dates several years back.
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Instructions
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Contact your employer for a copy of your W2. The IRS requires employers to keep employment tax records, including W2s, for at least four years. Some employers keep them for a longer period of time; your employer should have a copy.
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Call the IRS or complete Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, to request a free transcript of your W2. The transcript does not include the actual W2, but it has your W2 information. When you call the IRS, you will be asked for identifying information, such as your birthday, Social Security number and filing status for the tax year in question.
You can request transcripts for four years at a time via Form 4506-T. Complete another form if additional years are required. The IRS can provide you with transcripts for up to 10 years. Mail or fax Form 4506-T to the address or number stated on the form. The IRS generally processes W2 transcript requests within a week or two.
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Complete Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, to request an actual copy of the W2. The IRS will send you a copy of your entire tax return, including all W2 attachments. You can request up to eight years' tax returns on one Form 4506. For additional years, complete another form. Mail the form and processing fee ($57 per tax year, as of October 2010) to the address stated on the form. It can take the IRS up to 60 calendar days to process your request.
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Tips & Warnings
Complete the necessary forms legibly and completely. The IRS will reject your request if the form is inappropriately completed.
If you are requesting that a third-party receive your W2 transcript or tax return, indicate this on Line 5 of the form. The IRS assumes no responsibility for whatever a third party does with the information.
References
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