What is a W-2 Form used for?

A W-2 Form is used to report an employee's annual wages and the amount of taxes withheld from their paycheck to the IRS and state/local tax authorities. It is essential for filing your personal income tax return, as it provides the necessary income and withholding figures.

When should I receive my W-2 Form?

Employers are legally required to send W-2 Forms to employees by January 31st of each year. For the 2025 tax year, you should receive your W-2 by January 31, 2026.

What if I don't receive my W-2 by the deadline?

First, contact your employer's payroll department to request a copy or verify your mailing address. If you still haven't received it by mid-February, you can contact the IRS for assistance, or file Form 4852 (Substitute for Form W-2) if the tax deadline is approaching.

What is the difference between Box 1 and Box 3 on a W-2?

Box 1 reports your taxable wages for federal income tax purposes, which may be reduced by pre-tax deductions like 401(k) contributions. Box 3 reports your wages subject to Social Security tax, which has an annual wage base limit (e.g., $168,600 for 2026) and is generally not reduced by pre-tax deductions like 401(k) contributions.

Do I need a W-2 if I'm self-employed?

No, if you are self-employed, you will not receive a W-2 Form. Instead, clients or companies that paid you $600 or more will send you a Form 1099-NEC (Nonemployee Compensation). You will report your self-employment income on Schedule C (Form 1040).

What should I do if there's an error on my W-2?

If you find an error on your W-2, immediately contact your employer's payroll or HR department. They are responsible for issuing a corrected W-2 (Form W-2c). Do not file your taxes with an incorrect W-2.

Can I file my taxes without a W-2?

It is strongly recommended to wait for your W-2 to ensure accuracy. However, if the tax deadline is near and you still haven't received it after contacting your employer and the IRS, you can use Form 4852 to estimate your wages and withholding based on your pay stubs.

W-2 Form Guide: Understanding & Using for Taxes | One…