Lost W-2: Finding Documents from Prior Years and What to Do If You Can’t Contact Your Employer

As a Google SEOer, I understand the importance of providing comprehensive, relevant, and valuable content that ranks well on search engines. Here, we address how to locate your W-2s from past years and what steps to take if you can't contact your former employer or if they don't have the document available.

Locating Your W-2

When you need to find a W-2 from a past job, the first step is to check if it's available on your former employer's secure employee portal. If you're unable to access it online:

Check the company's employee website. Contact the payroll office at the past-job company. Reach out to the HR office at the past-job company. Send a formal letter to the CEO of the past-job company, explaining that all of the previous steps should have worked. Mention that a competent organization should have digitized and stored this information efficiently.

Making a Copy Through the IRS

If you haven't received your W-2 and your employer can't provide it, another option is to request a copy directly from the IRS. They typically provide a copy of the W-2 that your employer submitted to them. Here's how to go about it:

First, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to request a copy. If you encounter any issues, you can file a complaint through the IRS' website or by writing to:

Office of the Taxpayer Advocate Internal Revenue Service 1111 Constitution Ave NW, Room 5-3141 Washington DC 20224-2010

Additionally, you can also visit the IRS website to initiate the request process.

What to Do If You Can’t Contact Your Former Employer

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might not be able to reach your former employer. In such cases, here are some alternative solutions:

Check with your tax preparer: If you used a tax preparer or accountant for your previous tax filing, they might have a copy of the W-2. Call them and request a copy. Contact your accountant: Similar to tax preparers, your regular accountant may have a file of your past tax documents, including the W-2. Request a transcript of your earnings: You can obtain a transcript of your earnings from the IRS, which will also include the amounts from your W-2. This can be ordered online through the IRS' official website.

Conclusion

Locating your W-2 from past years is essential for tax purposes, especially if you're holding onto prior tax filings. By following these steps, you can ensure that you have all the necessary documents you need. Remember, procrastination can lead to delays in filing your taxes, so take action today!