How to Obtain a W-2 Form from an Old Employer
Many individuals find themselves in a challenging situation where they need to secure their W-2 form from an old employer, but they have since changed jobs and moved away. Whether you terminated your employment last year or left the company and moved to a different state, obtaining your W-2 form is crucial for both tax preparation and record-keeping. Below, we provide several methods and tips on how to successfully retrieve your W-2 form.
Contacting the IRS
If your old employer is unresponsive or unable to provide your W-2 form, you can request it through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). While there may be a fee associated with this service, you can still obtain the document. To request your W-2 from the IRS, follow these steps:
Visit the IRS Website: Go to the official IRS website and search for the forms requests section. From there, you can find the appropriate form or online request process.
Fill Out the Request: Complete the required information, including your personal and tax details. You may also need to pay a fee for this service.
Submit Your Request: Submit the form online or via mail. You can track the status of your request through the IRS website.
Approach Your Tax Preparer
Your tax preparer may be able to help you reconstruct your W-2 form from your last pay stub. Here’s how:
Collect Last Pay Stubs: Gather your most recent pay stubs as they often contain most of the necessary information.
Ask Your Tax Preparer: Contact your tax preparer and explain your situation. They can assist you in reconstructing the form based on the available information.
Request Deductions: Ensure that your tax preparer includes all applicable deductions to ensure accurate tax preparation.
Contact Your Previous Employer
It is the responsibility of your previous employer to provide you with a W-2 form. Here are steps to follow to request one:
Call Your Former Employer: Contact the Human Resources department of your previous employer and explain your situation. Provide your current address and request that they send your W-2 form.
Provide Information: Inform the HR representative about your previous employment and any relevant details that may assist them in locating your record.
Follow Up: After making the request, check your mail regularly for the document. If it arrives, ensure it is accurate by comparing it with your pay stubs or tax records.
Utilizing Online Payroll Systems
Many payroll companies offer online access to your W-2 forms. If you used services such as ADP, Paychex, or Paycor, you can access your documents through their online platforms:
Visit the Company’s Website: Log in to your account with the payroll provider. Most platforms allow you to view and download your W-2 form.
Download Your W-2: Locate the option to download or print your W-2 form. This method is convenient and free.
Prior Steps to Ensure Easy Retrieval
To make the retrieval process smoother:
Provide Forwarding Address: When you quit or change jobs, make sure to provide your new address to your old employer. Most companies send tax documents by mail.
Change of Address through Post Office: Make sure to change your address with your local post office to ensure that all communications go to your new address.
Conclusion
Obtaining your W-2 form from an old employer can be a challenging task, especially if you have moved and changed jobs. However, by following the steps outlined above, you can successfully retrieve your document. Remember, your employer has a legal obligation to provide you with the W-2 form. Whether you contact the IRS, your tax preparer, or your previous employer, always provide them with accurate and up-to-date information to facilitate the process.