How can I get a W-2 form from a previous employer?

Employers are running out of time to send out W-2s to their employees for the 2024 tax season. If you have not received yours, here is what you can do.

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Update: Jan 18th, 2024 06:49 EST

As workers quit their jobs in search of higher wages and better conditions, many may have to report their income to the IRS using more than one W-2.

Legally, employers are required to send out W-2s to all current and former workers. Federal law requires employers to send out W-2 forms to employees by Jan. 31 of each year, or the next business day if the end of the month falls on a weekend. If, over the next few days, you are still missing a W-2, you should reach out to the employer and ensure that they have the correct mailing address.

The IRS says that collecting your W-2 through your employer is the easiest way to receive it, but if you cannot get in their contact, there are other options.

How to request a W-2 from the IRS?

If there is no way for you to contact a past employer, you can request that the IRS send you a copy directly.

The IRS advises those in this situation to give them a call at 800-829-1040. Additionally, those who live near an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center can make an appointment to receive their W-2 in person.

The IRS will ask that you provide the following information:

Your employer’s or payer’s name
Your employer’s complete address, including ZIP code, phone number,
Your name, address including ZIP code, social security number, phone number, and dates of employment.

Once this information has been obtained, the IRS will send you information on how to submit Form 4851, otherwise known as a Substitute W-2.

When are taxes due?

The Federal tax filing deadline is Monday, 15 April 2024.

Can I get free assistance from the IRS to file my taxes?

Can you still file taxes if you had no income last year?

TAXES

If you earn this much, you don't need to pay taxes

The IRS offers programs for free tax preparation assistance for those who “generally make $60,000 or less,” have disabilities, or are not fluent English speakers.

If you fall into one or more of these groups, the agency recommends you find a center that offers Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and/or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.