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The IRS W-2 form stands as a critical document for both employers and employees, encapsulating essential information regarding an individual's annual earnings and the taxes that have been withheld from their paycheck throughout the fiscal year. As the primary mechanism for reporting wage and salary information to the government, it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy of one's tax return. Employers are mandated to issue a W-2 form to each of their employees and to file a copy with the Social Security Administration (SSA) by a specified deadline each year. This form not only facilitates the SSA in maintaining accurate records of an individual's earnings history, but it also assists employees in verifying that the correct amount of taxes is being reported to the IRS. Thus, the W-2 form is an indispensable tool in the tax filing process, serving to reconcile an individual's tax liabilities with the amounts that have already been paid through withholdings, thereby determining whether a refund is due or additional payment is necessary.

Form Preview Example

Attention:

You may file Forms W-2 and W-3 electronically on the SSA’s Employer W-2 Filing Instructions and Information web page, which is also accessible at www.socialsecurity.gov/employer. You can create fill-in versions of Forms W-2 and W-3 for filing with SSA. You may also print out copies for filing with state or local governments, distribution to your employees, and for your records.

The maximum amount of dependent care assistance benefits excludable from income may be increased for 2021. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 permits employers to increase the amount of dependent care benefits under their plans that can be excluded from an employee’s income from $5,000 ($2,500 for married filing separately) to up to $10,500 ($5,250 for married filing separately). See section C of Notice 2021-26 in

Internal Revenue Bulletin: 2021-21 | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov) for more information.

Note: Copy A of this form is provided for informational purposes only. Copy A appears in red, similar to the official IRS form. The official printed version of this IRS form is scannable, but the online version of it, printed from this website, is not. Do not print and file Copy A downloaded from this website with the SSA; a penalty may be imposed for filing forms that can’t be scanned. See the penalties section in the current General Instructions for Forms W-2 and W-3, available at www.irs.gov/w2, for more information.

Please note that Copy B and other copies of this form, which appear in black, may be downloaded, filled in, and printed and used to satisfy the requirement to provide the information to the recipient.

To order official IRS information returns such as Forms W-2 and W-3, which include a scannable Copy A for filing, go to IRS’ Online Ordering for Information Returns and Employer Returns page, or visit www.irs.gov/orderforms and click on Employer and Information returns. We’ll mail you the scannable forms and any other products you order.

See IRS Publications 1141, 1167, and 1179 for more information about printing these tax forms.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

22222

VOID

 

 

a

Employee’s social security number

For Official Use Only ▶

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OMB No. 1545-0008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b Employer identification number (EIN)

 

 

 

 

 

1 Wages, tips, other compensation

 

2 Federal income tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c Employer’s name, address, and ZIP code

 

3

Social security wages

 

 

 

4 Social security tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Medicare wages and tips

 

6

Medicare tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7

Social security tips

 

 

 

8

Allocated tips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d Control number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

Dependent care benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e Employee’s first name and initial

 

Last name

 

Suff.

11

Nonqualified plans

 

 

 

12a See instructions for box 12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

Statutory

Retirement

Third-party

 

12b

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

employee

plan

sick pay

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14 Other

 

 

 

 

 

12c

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

f Employee’s address and ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15 State Employer’s state ID number

 

 

16 State wages, tips, etc.

17 State income tax

 

18 Local wages, tips, etc.

19 Local income tax

 

20 Locality name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement

2022

 

 

Department of the Treasury—Internal Revenue Service

 

 

 

 

 

For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction

 

Copy A—For Social Security Administration. Send this entire page with

 

 

 

 

 

Act Notice, see the separate instructions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form W-3 to the Social Security Administration; photocopies are not acceptable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cat. No. 10134D

Do Not Cut, Fold, or Staple Forms on This Page

22222

a Employee’s social security number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OMB No. 1545-0008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b Employer identification number (EIN)

 

 

 

1 Wages, tips, other compensation

 

2 Federal income tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c Employer’s name, address, and ZIP code

 

3

Social security wages

 

 

 

4 Social security tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Medicare wages and tips

 

6

Medicare tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7

Social security tips

 

 

 

8

Allocated tips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d Control number

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

Dependent care benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e Employee’s first name and initial

Last name

Suff.

11

Nonqualified plans

 

 

 

12a

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

Statutory

Retirement

Third-party

 

12b

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

employee

plan

sick pay

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14 Other

 

 

 

 

 

12c

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

f Employee’s address and ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15 State Employer’s state ID number

 

16 State wages, tips, etc.

17 State income tax

 

18 Local wages, tips, etc.

19 Local income tax

20 Locality name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement

2022

 

 

Department of the Treasury—Internal Revenue Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copy 1—For State, City, or Local Tax Department

 

 

a

Employee’s social security number

 

 

 

Safe, accurate,

 

 

 

 

 

Visit the IRS website at

 

 

 

 

 

 

OMB No. 1545-0008

FAST! Use

 

 

 

 

 

www.irs.gov/efile

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b Employer identification number (EIN)

 

 

 

1 Wages, tips, other compensation

 

2 Federal income tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c Employer’s name, address, and ZIP code

 

3

Social security wages

 

 

 

4 Social security tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Medicare wages and tips

 

6

Medicare tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7

Social security tips

 

 

 

8

Allocated tips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d Control number

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

Dependent care benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e Employee’s first name and initial

Last name

Suff.

11

Nonqualified plans

 

 

 

12a See instructions for box 12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

Statutory

Retirement

Third-party

 

12b

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

employee

plan

sick pay

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14 Other

 

 

 

 

 

12c

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

f Employee’s address and ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15 State Employer’s state ID number

 

16 State wages, tips, etc.

17 State income tax

 

18 Local wages, tips, etc.

19 Local income tax

20 Locality name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement

2022

 

 

Department of the Treasury—Internal Revenue Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copy B—To Be Filed With Employee’s FEDERAL Tax Return.

This information is being furnished to the Internal Revenue Service.

Notice to Employee

Do you have to file? Refer to the Form 1040 instructions to determine if you are required to file a tax return. Even if you don’t have to file a tax return, you may be eligible for a refund if box 2 shows an amount or if you are eligible for any credit.

Earned income credit (EIC). You may be able to take the EIC for 2022 if your adjusted gross income (AGI) is less than a certain amount. The amount of the credit is based on income and family size. Workers without children could qualify for a smaller credit. You and any qualifying children must have valid social security numbers (SSNs). You can’t take the EIC if your investment income is more than the specified amount for 2022 or if income is earned for services provided while you were an inmate at a penal institution. For 2022 income limits and more information, visit www.irs.gov/EITC. See also Pub. 596, Earned Income Credit. Any EIC that is more than your tax liability is refunded to you, but only if you file a tax return.

Employee’s social security number (SSN). For your protection, this form may show only the last four digits of your SSN. However, your employer has reported your complete SSN to the IRS and the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Clergy and religious workers. If you aren’t subject to social security and Medicare taxes, see Pub. 517, Social Security and Other Information for Members of the Clergy and Religious Workers.

Corrections. If your name, SSN, or address is incorrect, correct Copies B, C, and 2 and ask your employer to correct your employment record. Be sure to ask the employer to file Form W-2c, Corrected Wage and Tax Statement, with the SSA to correct any name, SSN, or money amount error reported to the SSA on Form W-2. Be sure to get your copies of Form W-2c from your employer for all corrections made so you may file them with your tax return. If your name and SSN are correct but aren’t the same as shown on your social security card, you should ask for a new card that displays your correct name at any SSA office or by calling 800-772-1213. You may also visit the SSA website at www.SSA.gov.

Cost of employer-sponsored health coverage (if such cost is provided by the employer). The reporting in box 12, using code DD, of the cost of employer-sponsored health coverage is for your information only. The amount reported with code DD is not taxable.

Credit for excess taxes. If you had more than one employer in 2022 and more than $9,114 in social security and/or Tier 1 railroad retirement (RRTA) taxes were withheld, you may be able to claim a credit for the excess against your federal income tax. See the Form 1040 instructions. If you had more than one railroad employer and more than $5,350.80 in Tier 2 RRTA tax was withheld, you may be able to claim a refund on Form 843. See the Instructions for Form 843.

(See also Instructions for Employee on the back of Copy C.)

aEmployee’s social security number

 

This information is being furnished to the Internal Revenue Service. If you

OMB No. 1545-0008

are required to file a tax return, a negligence penalty or other sanction

may be imposed on you if this income is taxable and you fail to report it.

 

b Employer identification number (EIN)

 

 

 

1 Wages, tips, other compensation

 

2 Federal income tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c Employer’s name, address, and ZIP code

 

3

Social security wages

 

 

 

4 Social security tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Medicare wages and tips

 

6

Medicare tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7

Social security tips

 

 

 

8

Allocated tips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d Control number

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

Dependent care benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e Employee’s first name and initial

Last name

Suff.

11

Nonqualified plans

 

 

 

12a See instructions for box 12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

Statutory

Retirement

Third-party

 

12b

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

employee

plan

sick pay

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14 Other

 

 

 

 

 

12c

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

f Employee’s address and ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15 State Employer’s state ID number

 

16 State wages, tips, etc.

17 State income tax

 

18 Local wages, tips, etc.

19 Local income tax

20 Locality name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement

2022

 

 

Department of the Treasury—Internal Revenue Service

 

 

 

 

Safe, accurate,

 

Copy C—For EMPLOYEE’S RECORDS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FAST! Use

 

(See Notice to Employee on the back of Copy B.)

Instructions for Employee

(See also Notice to Employee on the back of Copy B.)

Box 1. Enter this amount on the wages line of your tax return.

Box 2. Enter this amount on the federal income tax withheld line of your tax return.

Box 5. You may be required to report this amount on Form 8959, Additional Medicare Tax. See the Form 1040 instructions to determine if you are required to complete Form 8959.

Box 6. This amount includes the 1.45% Medicare Tax withheld on all Medicare wages and tips shown in box 5, as well as the 0.9% Additional Medicare Tax on any of those Medicare wages and tips above $200,000.

Box 8. This amount is not included in box 1, 3, 5, or 7. For information on how to report tips on your tax return, see the Form 1040 instructions.

You must file Form 4137, Social Security and Medicare Tax on Unreported Tip Income, with your income tax return to report at least the allocated tip amount unless you can prove with adequate records that you received a smaller amount. If you have records that show the actual amount of tips you received, report that amount even if it is more or less than the allocated tips. Use Form 4137 to figure the social security and Medicare tax owed on tips you didn’t report to your employer. Enter this amount on the wages line of your tax return. By filing Form 4137, your social security tips will be credited to your social security record (used to figure your benefits).

Box 10. This amount includes the total dependent care benefits that your employer paid to you or incurred on your behalf (including amounts from a section 125 (cafeteria) plan). Any amount over your employer’s plan limit is also included in box 1. See Form 2441.

Box 11. This amount is (a) reported in box 1 if it is a distribution made to you from a nonqualified deferred compensation or nongovernmental section 457(b) plan, or (b) included in box 3 and/or box 5 if it is a prior year deferral under a nonqualified or section 457(b) plan that became taxable for social security and Medicare taxes this year because there is no longer a substantial risk of forfeiture of your right to the deferred amount. This box shouldn’t be used if you had a deferral and a distribution in the same calendar year. If you made a deferral and

received a distribution in the same calendar year, and you are or will be age 62 by the end of the calendar year, your employer should file Form SSA-131, Employer Report of Special Wage Payments, with the Social Security Administration and give you a copy.

Box 12. The following list explains the codes shown in box 12. You may need this information to complete your tax return. Elective deferrals (codes D, E, F, and S) and designated Roth contributions (codes AA, BB, and EE) under all plans are generally limited to a total of $20,500 ($14,000 if you only have SIMPLE plans; $23,500 for section 403(b) plans if you qualify for the 15-year rule explained in Pub. 571). Deferrals under code G are limited to $20,500. Deferrals under code H are limited to $7,000.

However, if you were at least age 50 in 2022, your employer may have allowed an additional deferral of up to $6,500 ($3,000 for section 401(k)(11) and 408(p) SIMPLE plans). This additional deferral amount is not subject to the overall limit on elective deferrals. For code G, the limit on elective deferrals may be higher for the last 3 years before you reach retirement age. Contact your plan administrator for more information. Amounts in excess of the overall elective deferral limit must be included in income. See the Form 1040 instructions.

Note: If a year follows code D through H, S, Y, AA, BB, or EE, you made a make-up pension contribution for a prior year(s) when you were in military service. To figure whether you made excess deferrals, consider these amounts for the year shown, not the current year. If no year is shown, the contributions are for the current year.

A—Uncollected social security or RRTA tax on tips. Include this tax on Form 1040 or 1040-SR. See the Form 1040 instructions.

B—Uncollected Medicare tax on tips. Include this tax on Form 1040 or 1040-SR. See the Form 1040 instructions.

C—Taxable cost of group-term life insurance over $50,000 (included in boxes 1, 3 (up to the social security wage base), and 5)

D—Elective deferrals to a section 401(k) cash or deferred arrangement. Also includes deferrals under a SIMPLE retirement account that is part of a section 401(k) arrangement.

E—Elective deferrals under a section 403(b) salary reduction agreement

(continued on back of Copy 2)

 

 

a Employee’s social security number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OMB No. 1545-0008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b Employer identification number (EIN)

 

 

 

1 Wages, tips, other compensation

 

2 Federal income tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c Employer’s name, address, and ZIP code

 

3

Social security wages

 

 

 

4 Social security tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Medicare wages and tips

 

6

Medicare tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7

Social security tips

 

 

 

8

Allocated tips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d Control number

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

Dependent care benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e Employee’s first name and initial

Last name

Suff.

11

Nonqualified plans

 

 

 

12a

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

Statutory

Retirement

Third-party

 

12b

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

employee

plan

sick pay

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14 Other

 

 

 

 

 

12c

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

f Employee’s address and ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15 State Employer’s state ID number

 

16 State wages, tips, etc.

17 State income tax

 

18 Local wages, tips, etc.

19 Local income tax

20 Locality name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement

2022

 

 

Department of the Treasury—Internal Revenue Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copy 2—To Be Filed With Employee’s State, City, or Local

Income Tax Return

Instructions for Employee (continued from back of

Copy C)

Box 12 (continued)

F—Elective deferrals under a section 408(k)(6) salary reduction SEP

G—Elective deferrals and employer contributions (including nonelective deferrals) to a section 457(b) deferred compensation plan

H—Elective deferrals to a section 501(c)(18)(D) tax-exempt organization plan. See the Form 1040 instructions for how to deduct.

J—Nontaxable sick pay (information only, not included in box 1, 3, or 5)

K—20% excise tax on excess golden parachute payments. See the Form 1040 instructions.

L—Substantiated employee business expense reimbursements (nontaxable)

M—Uncollected social security or RRTA tax on taxable cost of group- term life insurance over $50,000 (former employees only). See the Form 1040 instructions.

N—Uncollected Medicare tax on taxable cost of group-term life insurance over $50,000 (former employees only). See the Form 1040 instructions.

P—Excludable moving expense reimbursements paid directly to a member of the U.S. Armed Forces (not included in box 1, 3, or 5)

Q—Nontaxable combat pay. See the Form 1040 instructions for details on reporting this amount.

R—Employer contributions to your Archer MSA. Report on Form 8853, Archer MSAs and Long-Term Care Insurance Contracts.

S—Employee salary reduction contributions under a section 408(p) SIMPLE plan (not included in box 1)

T—Adoption benefits (not included in box 1). Complete Form 8839, Qualified Adoption Expenses, to figure any taxable and nontaxable amounts.

V—Income from exercise of nonstatutory stock option(s) (included in boxes 1, 3 (up to the social security wage base), and 5). See Pub. 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income, for reporting requirements.

W—Employer contributions (including amounts the employee elected to contribute using a section 125 (cafeteria) plan) to your health savings account. Report on Form 8889, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

Y—Deferrals under a section 409A nonqualified deferred compensation plan

Z—Income under a nonqualified deferred compensation plan that fails to satisfy section 409A. This amount is also included in box 1. It is subject to an additional 20% tax plus interest. See the Form 1040 instructions.

AA—Designated Roth contributions under a section 401(k) plan BB—Designated Roth contributions under a section 403(b) plan

DD—Cost of employer-sponsored health coverage. The amount reported with code DD is not taxable.

EE—Designated Roth contributions under a governmental section 457(b) plan. This amount does not apply to contributions under a tax- exempt organization section 457(b) plan.

FF—Permitted benefits under a qualified small employer health reimbursement arrangement

GG—Income from qualified equity grants under section 83(i)

HH—Aggregate deferrals under section 83(i) elections as of the close of the calendar year

Box 13. If the “Retirement plan” box is checked, special limits may apply to the amount of traditional IRA contributions you may deduct. See Pub. 590-A, Contributions to Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs).

Box 14. Employers may use this box to report information such as state disability insurance taxes withheld, union dues, uniform payments, health insurance premiums deducted, nontaxable income, educational assistance payments, or a member of the clergy’s parsonage allowance and utilities. Railroad employers use this box to report railroad retirement (RRTA) compensation, Tier 1 tax, Tier 2 tax, Medicare tax, and Additional Medicare Tax. Include tips reported by the employee to the employer in railroad retirement (RRTA) compensation.

Note: Keep Copy C of Form W-2 for at least 3 years after the due date for filing your income tax return. However, to help protect your social security benefits, keep Copy C until you begin receiving social security benefits, just in case there is a question about your work record and/or earnings in a particular year.

 

VOID

 

 

a Employee’s social security number

OMB No. 1545-0008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b Employer identification number (EIN)

 

 

 

1 Wages, tips, other compensation

 

2 Federal income tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c Employer’s name, address, and ZIP code

 

3

Social security wages

 

 

 

4 Social security tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 Medicare wages and tips

 

6

Medicare tax withheld

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7

Social security tips

 

 

 

8

Allocated tips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d Control number

 

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10

Dependent care benefits

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e Employee’s first name and initial

Last name

Suff.

11

Nonqualified plans

 

 

 

12a See instructions for box 12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13

Statutory

Retirement

Third-party

 

12b

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

employee

plan

sick pay

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14 Other

 

 

 

 

 

12c

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e

 

 

 

f Employee’s address and ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15 State Employer’s state ID number

 

16 State wages, tips, etc.

17 State income tax

 

18 Local wages, tips, etc.

19 Local income tax

20 Locality name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form W-2 Wage and Tax Statement

2022

 

 

Department of the Treasury—Internal Revenue Service

 

 

 

 

For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction

Copy D—For Employer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Act Notice, see separate instructions.
Click for PDF Form

File Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose of Form W-2 The IRS Form W-2 is used by employers to report an employee's annual wages and the amount of taxes withheld from their paycheck.
Due Date Employers must send out Form W-2 to employees by January 31st of the year following the reported earnings.
Electronic Submission Employers have the option to file Form W-2 electronically with the Social Security Administration, which is encouraged for those filing 250 or more forms.
State-Specific Forms Some states require an additional form to be filed along with or instead of the IRS W-2. These requirements vary by state and are governed by each state's respective tax laws.

Steps to Writing IRS W-2

Filling out the IRS W-2 form is a necessary step for employers at the end of the year, as this document reports an employee's annual wages and the amount of taxes withheld from their paycheck. This form plays a crucial role in ensuring employees can accurately file their taxes. It might seem daunting at first, but with a clear set of instructions, the process becomes straightforward. Let's walk through the steps needed to fill out this important form accurately.

  1. Gather the necessary information, including your Employer Identification Number (EIN), the employee's Social Security Number (SSN), and their full legal name, as well as the total wages earned and taxes withheld over the year.
  2. Enter the employer's information, including the EIN, in boxes (b), the employer's name, address, and ZIP code in boxes (c), (d), and (e).
  3. Input the employee's SSN in box (a) and their full legal name and address in the spaces provided.
  4. In box (1), enter the total wages, tips, and other compensation paid to the employee during the tax year.
  5. Fill in box (2) with the total federal income tax withheld from the employee's earnings for the year.
  6. Enter the total amount of Social Security wages in box (3), ensuring it does not exceed the yearly maximum amount subject to Social Security tax.
  7. In box (4), report the total Social Security tax withheld from the employee's wages.
  8. Record the total Medicare wages and tips in box (5), followed by the total Medicare tax withheld in box (6).
  9. If applicable, fill in boxes (7) and (8) for Social Security tips and allocated tips.
  10. In box (12), report any deferred compensation, distributions, or other codes according to the IRS guidelines. Use the IRS's official list of codes for accuracy.
  11. Complete any applicable state and local income tax information in boxes (15) through (20), including the employer's state ID number, state wages, tips, etc., and the amount of state and local income tax withheld.
  12. Double-check all the information for accuracy.
  13. Once complete, distribute the W-2 forms accordingly. Employees receive Copies B, C, and 2, while the employer retains Copy D for their records. Copies A and 1 are sent to the SSA and any applicable state or local tax departments.

After completing the W-2 form accurately, the next step involves ensuring that employees receive their copies by January 31st, allowing them ample time to file their taxes. The employer must also submit the necessary copies to the Social Security Administration and any state or local tax departments, if applicable, by the end of January. It's important to adhere to these deadlines to avoid any penalties. By following these steps meticulously, employers can fulfill their obligations and help streamline the tax filing process for their employees.

Important Details about IRS W-2

What is a W-2 form?

The W-2 form, also known as the Wage and Tax Statement, is a document that employers are required to give to each of their employees and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at the end of the year. It reports the employee's annual wages and the amount of taxes withheld from their paychecks.

Who needs to file a W-2 form?

Employers must file a W-2 form for each employee from whom Income, Social Security, or Medicare tax was withheld. This includes any employee who had income tax withheld under the backup withholding rules, regardless of the amount of wages paid.

When is the W-2 form due?

Employers must send out the W-2 forms to their employees by January 31st of the year following the reporting year. For example, for the 2022 reporting year, the W-2 forms must be distributed to employees by January 31, 2023. Additionally, employers must file the W-2 forms with the Social Security Administration (SSA) by the same date.

What information is included on a W-2 form?

A W-2 form includes information such as the employer's identification number (EIN), the employer's name, and address, the employee's social security number, name, and address, wages earned, taxes withheld for federal, state, and local taxes, contributions to retirement plans, and other benefits.

What should I do if I find a mistake on my W-2 form?

If you discover a mistake on your W-2 form, contact your employer as soon as possible. Your employer will need to correct the error and issue a corrected W-2, known as a W-2c form. It is important to ensure that your income and deductions are accurately reported to the IRS.

Can I file my taxes if I haven't received my W-2 form?

If you haven't received your W-2 form by the due date, the IRS recommends contacting your employer to make sure they have your correct address and to ask them to resend the W-2. If you still don't receive your W-2 by February 14th, contact the IRS for assistance. You may still file your taxes using Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, but be aware that your tax return may require correction later on, which could delay any refund you are owed.

Is a digital W-2 form valid?

Yes, digital W-2 forms are valid. Employers can provide employees with an electronic copy of their W-2 form. However, the employer must meet certain requirements related to consent and the manner of furnishing electronic statements outlined by the IRS to ensure the validity and legality of the electronic documents.

How do I get a copy of an old W-2 form?

If you need a copy of an old W-2 form, start by contacting your employer who issued it. If that's not an option, you can request a copy from the IRS by using Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return. Be aware that there may be a fee involved, and it can take some time to receive the documents.

Common mistakes

Filling out the IRS W-2 form is an annual task for employers that requires precision and understanding. Despite being a routine document, mistakes can be common, sometimes leading to unnecessary headaches for both employers and employees. Knowing what pitfalls to avoid can ensure the process is smoother and more accurate.

One of the most frequent errors is incorrect or missing Social Security numbers. Given the significance of this number in tax documents, any mistake can cause delays or issues with tax returns for employees. It’s crucial to double-check these entries for accuracy.

Another mistake lies in not reporting or misreporting wages and taxes. This can lead to discrepancies that may trigger audits or penalties. It's essential to meticulously review the amounts to ensure they match payroll records.

A common oversight is not checking the employee's name and Social Security number against the Social Security Administration's records. Inconsistencies here can lead to rejected tax filings, necessitating corrections and resubmissions, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Employers sometimes miscategorize employees as independent contractors and vice versa, which can have significant tax implications. Understanding the distinction and ensuring each worker is correctly classified are critical to avoid fines from the IRS.

Deadline misses are another frequent error. The IRS requires W-2 forms to be sent to employees and filed with them by a specified date. Late submissions can result in penalties, so it’s beneficial to have internal reminders to meet these deadlines.

Failing to provide copies to the appropriate parties is a mistake that can easily occur. Employees require their copies, but the Social Security Administration and the state tax agency (if applicable) also need theirs. Ensuring all entities receive the correct documentation is fundamental.

Incorrectly filling out state information or neglecting it altogether can lead to problems, especially for employees who work in different states or for companies operating across state lines. Accurate state tax reporting is as crucial as federal tax compliance.

Forgetting to record all compensatory items, such as fringe benefits, in the taxable income can lead to underreported wages. Employers need to be aware of what constitutes taxable income to ensure total compensation is correctly reported.

Lastly, not utilizing the electronic filing option when available can slow down the process. E-filing is faster, more accurate, and provides an immediate confirmation once the submission is accepted, minimizing errors and delays.

Avoiding these common mistakes requires attention to detail, a solid understanding of tax laws, and a proactive approach to managing payroll processes. By being aware of these potential pitfalls, employers can ensure they fulfill their obligations accurately and efficiently.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with employment taxes and income reporting in the United States, the IRS W-2 form is a critical document that reports an employee's annual wages and the amount of taxes withheld from their paycheck. However, managing and understanding an employee's full financial and tax situation often requires additional forms and documents. This list is comprehensive but not exhaustive, encompassing forms that are frequently used in conjunction with the IRS W-2 form to provide a fuller picture of an individual’s tax responsibilities and financial standing.

  • IRS Form W-4: Employed to indicate an employee's tax withholding preferences, the W-4 form is often completed by the employee when they are first hired or when their personal or financial situation changes. It determines the amount of taxes that should be withheld from their paycheck.
  • IRS Form 1099-MISC: This document is used to report income from sources other than wages, salaries, and tips. It's relevant for independent contractors and freelancers who have received at least $600 for their services, rent, or other income payments.
  • IRS Form 1099-NEC: Implemented in the tax year 2020, this form is used specifically for reporting nonemployee compensation of $600 or more. It has replaced the box 7 portion of the 1099-MISC form for freelancers, contractors, and other non-employees.
  • IRS Schedule C (Form 1040): This form is used by sole proprietors to report both their income and losses. Many individuals who receive a W-2 also run a business on the side and must file a Schedule C to report additional income or loss from their business activity.
  • IRS Form 1040: The standard IRS form for individual tax filers, Form 1040, is where all sources of income, including that reported on the W-2, are compiled. It's the primary form used to calculate the tax liability or refund due for the year.

These documents collectively help paint a comprehensive financial picture for individuals, assisting them in fulfilling their tax obligations while maximizing potential returns. They serve as critical pieces in the complex puzzle of U.S. tax reporting and compliance. It's essential to understand the purpose and requirements of each form to ensure accuracy in reporting and to avoid potential penalties for underpayment or misrepresentation of one's income and tax responsibilities.

Similar forms

The IRS Form 1099-MISC is quite similar to the W-2 in that it reports income paid over the tax year. However, while the W-2 is for employees, the 1099-MISC is utilized for reporting payments to independent contractors. Both forms serve the purpose of informing the IRS of an individual's income, but they apply to different types of employment relationships.

Form 1099-NEC, introduced in recent years, also bears similarity to the W-2. This form is specifically designed to report non-employee compensation, marking a clear distinction from traditional employment. Like the W-2, it is essential for tax reporting purposes but focuses on freelancers and independent contractors, emphasizing the diversity in modern work arrangements.

The IRS Form 1040 is the primary tax return form for individuals and, while it encompasses a wider scope, it shares a connection with the W-2 through income reporting. Individuals use the information on their W-2s to fill out portions of the 1040, illustrating how these documents work in tandem to report and calculate federal income tax liability.

Form W-4 is another document connected to the W-2, albeit indirectly. The W-4 is filled out by employees to indicate their tax withholding preferences. The information on a W-4 influences what appears on a W-2 by determining the amount of federal income tax withheld from an employee's pay, showcasing their complementary roles in tax administration.

The Schedule SE (Form 1040) is related to the W-2 in the context of reporting income for tax purposes, but it is used by self-employed individuals to calculate self-employment tax. This form highlights the tax responsibilities of self-employment, contrasting with the W-2’s role in traditional employment scenarios.

Form 944, the Employer’s Annual Federal Tax Return, is designed for smaller employers to report wages paid and taxes withheld. This form's relationship with the W-2 is evident in its function of summarizing employee compensation and withholding, thus providing a macro view of information that individual W-2 forms report in detail.

The IRS Form W-3 serves as a transmittal form, summarizing all of an employer’s W-2 forms and sending them to the Social Security Administration. This essential document works in direct tandem with the W-2, collecting the individual records into a comprehensive report, demonstrating their interconnected roles in employment tax reporting.

Form SS-8 is a document that determines the classification of workers for purposes of federal employment taxes and income tax withholding. While not directly reporting income, it influences whether a worker should receive a W-2 or a 1099 form based on their employment status, showing its indirect relevance to the process of income reporting.

Last, the IRS Form 4852 serves as a substitute for a W-2 when an employee does not receive one or it is incorrect. This form allows taxpayers to estimate their wage and withholding information, enabling them to file their taxes even when the original W-2 is unavailable, thus ensuring continuity in tax reporting processes.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the IRS W-2 form is a crucial task for employers. It requires careful attention to detail to ensure both compliance with the IRS guidelines and the accuracy of the information provided. To make this process smoother, here are four do's and four don'ts:

Do:
  1. Double-check employee information. Ensure that you have the correct names, social security numbers, and addresses for all employees.
  2. Report all compensation accurately. This includes wages, tips, and other forms of compensation.
  3. Use the IRS's electronic filing system if you are submitting W-2 forms for more than 250 employees. This makes the process more efficient and reduces the risk of errors.
  4. Provide employees with their W-2 forms by January 31st. This is the deadline for employers to distribute W-2 forms to their employees.
Don't:
  • Forget to include decimal points and cents in amounts. Rounding to the nearest dollar can lead to reporting errors.
  • Miss state and local tax reporting requirements. Along with federal taxes, you may also need to report state and local taxes on the W-2 forms.
  • Overlook the importance of saving copies. Keep copies of all W-2 forms for at least four years in case of audits or employee inquiries.
  • Delay correcting mistakes. If you discover an error on a W-2 form, correct it immediately to avoid penalties.

Misconceptions

Every year, as tax season approaches, the IRS W-2 form becomes a focus for many individuals. Despite its annual relevance, a variety of misconceptions surround this crucial document. Below, we debunk some common myths to provide clarity.

  • Only full-time employees receive a W-2. This isn't true. Both full-time and part-time employees should expect a W-2 form if they are employed by an organization that withholds taxes from their paycheck.
  • Independent contractors should expect to receive a W-2. Actually, independent contractors do not receive W-2 forms. Instead, they should anticipate a Form 1099-NEC, which reports income received as a non-employee.
  • W-2 forms are only needed if you're filing a tax return. This misconception can lead to unnecessary confusion. Regardless of whether you need to file a tax return, your employer is required to provide a W-2. This form might be needed for other financial situations, such as applying for loans.
  • The W-2 form only reports your annual salary. In fact, the W-2 includes much more than just your salary. It details taxes withheld, contributions to retirement plans, and potentially other benefits and deductions.
  • If you haven’t received your W-2 by January 31, you should immediately call the IRS. While prompt action is important, the IRS suggests contacting your employer first. Employers have until January 31 to send out W-2 forms, and it might take a few days to arrive. If it's still missing after contacting your employer, then it's time to reach out to the IRS.
  • You don’t need your W-2 to file taxes. Actually, your W-2 form is essential for accurately filing your taxes. It contains information about your income and the taxes withheld from it, which are critical for preparing your tax return.
  • Digital copies of a W-2 are not acceptable for tax filing. This is not correct. Many people now file taxes electronically, using electronic or scanned copies of their W-2 forms. However, it's important to ensure that the digital documents are accurate and secure.
  • W-2 forms are private and cannot be requested by other entities. In reality, while your W-2 form contains sensitive information, there are circumstances under which you might be asked to provide a copy, such as when applying for a mortgage or other loan.

Understanding the truth about these misconceptions can help individuals navigate tax season more effectively, ensuring they are better prepared and informed about their obligations and the process.

Key takeaways

  • The IRS W-2 form is pivotal for both employers and employees as it details the annual wages paid and taxes withheld from a paycheck. This form is central to accurately reporting one’s income and tax obligations to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

  • Employers must provide W-2 forms to their employees by January 31st of the year following the reporting year, giving employees sufficient time to file their income taxes. This deadline ensures the timely processing of tax returns and refunds.

  • Each copy of the W-2 serves a different purpose. Employees receive multiple copies of the W-2 form, each designated for federal tax return filing, state or local tax return filing, and personal records. This distinction underscores the form’s multifaceted role in tax administration.

  • Mistakes on a W-2 form can lead to tax filing issues for both the employee and employer. It's paramount for employers to double-check the form for accuracy before distribution and for employees to verify their information upon receipt. Prompt correction of errors is necessary to avoid complications with tax returns.

  • The W-2 form contains important information such as wages earned, tax withheld, and contributions to retirement plans. It highlights not just the gross income but also provides a detailed account of how one’s earnings are allocated, influencing potential tax deductions and credits eligibility.

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