How to Get a W2 from a Previous Employer in 2023

Introduction

When you leave a job, you need to make sure that you have all the relevant information from your previous employer. One of the most important documents you will need is the W2 Form, which is issued by the employer each year. This form is used to report your wages and the taxes withheld from them for the previous year. In this article, we will explain how to get a W2 from a previous employer in 2023.

Step 1: Request a Copy of the Form

The first step is to contact your previous employer and request a copy of the W2 Form. It is important to do this as soon as possible, as employers are only legally required to keep these forms on file for a certain period of time. If you are unable to get a copy of the form from your employer, you can contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for assistance.

Step 2: Check with Your State Department of Revenue

If you are still having difficulty obtaining a copy of your W2 Form, you may also check with your state's department of revenue. Many states have laws that require employers to file copies of W2 Forms with the state. The state may be able to provide you with a copy of the form.

Step 3: Contact the Social Security Administration

If neither of the above options works, you can also contact the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA may be able to provide you with a copy of your form if your employer has failed to do so. You will need to provide the SSA with your Social Security number and the name and address of your previous employer.

Step 4: File an Extension

If you are unable to get a copy of your W2 Form before the tax filing deadline, you can file for an extension. This will give you additional time to obtain the form and file your taxes. However, you should still make an effort to get the form as soon as possible, as an extension will not prevent you from having to pay penalties or interest on any taxes that may be owed.

Step 5: File an Amended Return

If you already filed your taxes without the W2 Form, you may need to file an amended return. You can do this by filing a Form 1040X. You will need to provide a copy of the W2 Form with your amended return. The amended return will need to be filed by the same deadline as the original return.

Conclusion

Getting a W2 from a previous employer in 2023 is not difficult, but it does require some effort. Start by contacting your employer and then check with your state's department of revenue and the Social Security Administration for assistance. If you are unable to get the form before the filing deadline, you may need to file for an extension or an amended return.