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Past Employer not providing W-2 form? In this blog, we will view and understand the whole process of how can you 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, or the Wage and Tax Statement, is a document your employer handover to you which outlines your earnings and tax withholdings for a specific tax year.
It includes important information such as your total wages, salary, tips, bonuses, and other compensation received during the year. The form also details the amount of federal, state, and local taxes withheld from your paycheck stubs.
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 accurately complete your income tax return. 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 uses the information on your W-2 form to calculate your future Social Security benefits. Accurate reporting ensures that you receive the correct benefits when you retire.
Why requesting a W-2 Form from your Past Employer Crucial?
If you have switched jobs in the past getting your hands-on W-2 form form your past employer is important as it plays a crucial role in filing your taxes. Requesting a W-2 form from your previous employer is crucial for several reasons.
Below mentioned are the information:
- Information about how much money have you earned in the previous firm.
- Gross amount which includes federal, state and local taxes as well as Social Security tax and Medicare taxes restrained from your salary.
- Your contribution annually towards retirement fund.
- Healthcare benefit contributions by employer.
- Gross amount of Dependent Care benefit 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: Reach out to your former employer’s human resources department 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 right location. If your address has changed since leaving the company, provide them with your updated address.
- Verify the date: Keep a check on the important dates to know when you should involve. Your former employer has the last deadline of upto Jan31st 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 are out of all the 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 important 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 fulfill 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.
