Step 1: Check the simple things
- Look for an online payroll portal. Many employers post W-2s electronically, and some mail only on request.
- Check that your employer has your current address.
- Look through email and your junk folder for an electronic delivery notice.
Step 2: Ask your employer
Contact your employer’s payroll or HR department and request a copy. Employers must keep records and can reissue a W-2. If you have left the company, ask for the payroll contact; many companies outsource this to a payroll provider.
Step 3: Wait a reasonable time, then contact the IRS
If you still have not received your W-2 by early-to-mid February, the IRS guidance says you can contact the IRS for help, and you will be asked for your employer’s name, address and phone number, your dates of employment, and an estimate of your wages and withholding (from your final pay stub, for instance). The IRS may then contact your employer on your behalf. See IRS Topic 154.
Step 4: Use your final pay stub or a transcript
Your last pay stub of the year shows year-to-date wages and withholding, which usually matches your W-2. You can also check an IRS wage and income transcript online, which shows information that employers reported to the IRS. Transcripts for the current tax year may not be fully available until after employers file in the spring. See how to get a transcript.
Step 5: File with Form 4852 if you must
If the deadline is close and you have not received a W-2, you can estimate your wages and withholding from your pay stubs and file using Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2. Be as accurate as possible and attach the form to your return. Keep the supporting pay stubs.
If the W-2 arrives later and is different
If you file with an estimate and your actual W-2 arrives with different numbers, you generally need to file an amended return. See how to amend.
What if my employer never reports it?
You are still responsible for reporting all wages. If your employer failed to file or withhold, you can report the wages yourself. Contact the IRS or the Taxpayer Advocate Service if you run into trouble.
Don’t forget other missing forms
The same approach works for 1099s: ask the payer, check portals, and use a transcript. Remember you must report income even if you never receive a form.
Frequently asked questions
Can I file taxes without a W-2?
Yes. You can file with Form 4852 using your pay stub information, but it is better to get the actual W-2 if possible.
When should I contact the IRS about a missing W-2?
The IRS suggests contacting your employer first and calling the IRS if you still do not have it by mid-to-late February.
What if my W-2 amounts are different from my estimate?
Amend your return with Form 1040-X using the correct W-2 figures.
Official sources
- IRS Topic 154: Missing or incorrect W-2 / 1099-R
- IRS Topic 159: Wage and income transcripts
- IRS: Get Transcript
- IRS: About Form W-2
General information only — not tax, legal or financial advice. Tax figures change every year; verify the current numbers at IRS.gov or with a qualified professional. Read the full disclaimer.