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Past employer not providing the W-2 form? In this blog, we will view and understand the whole process of how you can request a W-2 form from your past employer.
When you switch jobs, there are various administrative tasks you need to take care of, and one of them is obtaining your W-2 form from your previous employer. The W-2 form is a crucial document that reports your annual earnings and taxes withheld by your employer.
What is a W-2 form?
A W-2 form, otherwise known as the Wage and Tax Statement, is a document that your employer gives you outlining your earnings and tax withholding for a given tax year.
Critical information is available in this form, such as the total wages, salary, tips, bonuses, and other compensation for the year, in addition to federal and state taxes withheld from paychecks. It can show the city taxes as well.
Importance of a W-2 form
The W-2 form is crucial for several reasons:
Income Tax Filing: The information on your W-2 form is used to complete your income tax return accurately. It helps you report your earnings and ensures that you claim all applicable tax deductions and credits.
Verification of Your Wages: The W-2 form proves your income for the tax year. It may be required when applying for loans, mortgages, or other financial purposes that require income verification.
Social Security Benefits: The Social Security Administration takes into account the information found in your W-2 form in determining the future Social Security benefits you would receive. You must afford correct reporting for the right benefits when you retire.
Why is getting a W-2 form from your previous employer important?
If you have at some point changed jobs, you should obtain your W-2 from a previous employer, for it is a significant document that plays a vital role in filing taxes. There are many reasons for requesting a W-2 from the recent employer.
Below is the information:
- Information about how much money you have earned in the previous firm.
- The gross amount, which includes federal, state, and local taxes, as well as Social Security and Medicare taxes, is deducted from your salary.
- Your contribution annually towards a retirement fund.
- Healthcare benefit contributions by the employer.
- The gross amount of dependent care benefits that you received.
Steps to Request a W-2 Form
Follow these steps to request your W-2 form from your previous employer:
- Contact your previous employer: Contact your former employer’s human resources or payroll department. Inform them that you need a copy of your W-2 form. Provide your current contact information and the tax year for which you require the form.
- Verify the mailing address: Ensure the employer has your correct address on file. It is crucial to receive the W-2 form at the proper location. If your address has changed since leaving the company, provide them with your updated address.
- Verify the date: Check the important dates to know when you should be involved. Your former employer has the last deadline, January 31st, to mail you the W-2 statement. At the latest, it should arrive in your hands by 14th Feb.
- Follow up if needed: If you don’t receive your W-2 form within a reasonable time frame, follow up with your previous employer. Politely inquire about the status of your request and request any updates or necessary actions from their end.
- Contact the IRS if all else fails: If you have exhausted all your options and still haven’t received your W-2 form, you can contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for assistance. They can provide guidance and help resolve any issues related to obtaining your W-2 form.
Conclusion
Requesting your W-2 form from a previous employer is an essential step after switching jobs. Contact your former employer promptly, provide accurate information, and follow up if necessary.
The W-2 form is crucial for accurately filing your taxes, verifying your income, and ensuring you receive the correct benefits in the future. Following the steps outlined in this blog, you can navigate the process smoothly and fulfil your obligations as a taxpayer.
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FAQ's
Can I request a W-2 form from a previous employer online?
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It depends on the employer. Some provide online access to request and download W-2 forms, while others may require a different method.
What information do I need to provide when requesting a W-2?
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Typically, you'll need to provide your full name, Social Security number, address, phone number, and the tax year for which you need the W-2.
How long does it typically take to receive a W-2 after making a request?
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The timing can vary. Employers are required to provide W-2 forms by January 31st, but it may take a few weeks for mail delivery or processing if you request it via mail or email.
What should I do if I haven't received my W-2 after the requested timeframe?
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If you haven't received your W-2 within a reasonable timeframe, contact your previous employer's HR or payroll department to inquire about the status. They can provide guidance on next steps or reissue the form if necessary.
