Form preview

IRS W-2 2025-2026 free printable template

Get Form
Attention: You may file Forms W2 and W3 electronically on the SSAs Employer W2 Filing Instructions and Information web page, which is also accessible at www.socialsecurity.gov/employer. You can create
pdfFiller is not affiliated with IRS
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot

Get, Create, Make, and Sign IRS W-2

Edit your IRS W-2 online
Type text, complete fillable fields, insert images, highlight or blackout data for discretion, add comments, and more.
Screenshot
Add your legally-binding signature
Draw or type your signature, upload a signature image, or capture it with your digital camera.
Screenshot
Share your form instantly
Email, fax, or share your IRS W-2 via URL. You can also download, print, or export forms to your preferred cloud storage service.
Screenshot

Instructions and Help about IRS W-2

How to edit IRS W-2

Editing an IRS W-2 form typically involves ensuring that the information reflects your accurate earnings and tax withholdings. If you need to make corrections, you can access the W-2 form through your employer or use designated tools such as pdfFiller to edit the document digitally. Make sure all modifications are clearly indicated and documented to avoid potential issues during the IRS review.

How to fill out IRS W-2

To correctly fill out the IRS W-2 form, gather the necessary information including your employer's details, your personal information, and your earnings data. Ensure that each box on the form is completed accurately, reflecting your total wages, tips, and other compensation. Pay attention to the specific codes which indicate tax withholdings and contributions to retirement plans. Follow the outlined instructions for each section to ensure compliance with IRS regulations. For digital editing, pdfFiller offers tools that simplify this process.

Latest updates to IRS W-2

The IRS updates the W-2 form and its instructions periodically. For 2023 filings, check the IRS website for any modifications in requirements or reporting guidelines. Ensure you are using the most recent version of the form to comply with current regulations.

All You Need to Know About IRS W-2

What is IRS W-2?

IRS W-2 is a tax form that employers in the United States must file for each employee. It reports an employee's annual wages and the amount of taxes withheld from their paycheck. Employers provide this form to both the IRS and the employee, serving as a crucial document for personal income tax filings.

Who needs the form?

All employees who receive wages or salary from an employer need a W-2 form. This includes full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers. Employers are responsible for providing W-2s to all eligible employees, regardless of the duration or type of employment.

Components of the form

The W-2 form includes various components: employee details (name, address, Social Security number), employer details (name, address, Employer Identification Number), and financial information such as total wages, total federal tax withheld, and Social Security and Medicare contributions. Each box is designated for specific information; accurate completion is essential for clear reporting.

What are the penalties for not issuing the form?

If an employer fails to issue the W-2 form on time or issues an incorrect form, they may face penalties from the IRS. Penalties can range from $50 to $550 per form, depending on how late the form is issued. Consequences can include increased scrutiny in the case of repeated errors or negligence.

Is the form accompanied by other forms?

The W-2 form itself does not require accompanying forms for employees, but for employers, it must be submitted along with Form W-3, which summarizes the total wages and tax withheld for all employees. Employees, in turn, may need to include the W-2 along with other forms, such as Form 1040, when filing their taxes.

What is the purpose of this form?

The purpose of the W-2 form is to provide accurate information regarding earnings and tax deductions for employees. It allows the IRS to track income tax revenue and verify reporting consistency among taxpayers. Employees use this form to file their annual tax returns, ensuring that they report their income accurately.

When am I exempt from filling out this form?

Individuals who are not employees and do not receive wages, such as independent contractors receiving a 1099 form instead, do not need to fill out a W-2. Additionally, certain low-income workers who earn below the filing threshold may not receive a W-2 since they may not be required to file a tax return.

Due date

The due date for employers to send out W-2 forms to employees is January 31 of each year. Employers must also file the W-2 form with the Social Security Administration by the same date, ensuring timely processing and compliance. Failure to meet this deadline can result in penalties.

What information do you need when you file the form?

When filing the W-2 form, you need the following information: your total wages and tips for the year, federal income tax withheld, Social Security wages and tips, Medicare wages and tips, and any additional compensation during the year. You will also need to ensure that all information corresponds accurately with your records and tax documents.

Where do I send the form?

Employees do not send the W-2 form to any office; instead, they retain it for their records and include it when filing their annual tax returns. Employers must send the W-2 forms to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the relevant state tax agency. The filing can be done electronically or via mail, depending on the volume of employees and the employer’s preference.

FAQ about IRS W-2

If you discover an error on your IRS W-2 after it has been filed, you should issue a corrected W-2 form, known as a W-2c. This allows you to amend the previously submitted information. Ensure that the correct information is clearly indicated and provide copies to both the employee and the IRS to maintain accurate records.

To verify the receipt and processing of your IRS W-2, you can contact the IRS directly or check your account on the IRS website if you are registered. Keep an eye out for any notifications from the IRS that may indicate if there were issues with the processing of your form.

When filing the IRS W-2, it is crucial to prioritize privacy and data security. Always use secure methods to transmit the form electronically or via mail. Ensure that personal information is adequately protected, and consider using e-signatures if your software supports them, which can offer an additional layer of security.

If your IRS W-2 is rejected after e-filing, review the e-file rejection codes provided by the IRS to understand the error. Correct the issues indicated in the rejection notice. After rectifying the mistakes, you can resubmit your IRS W-2 electronically to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Yes, when e-filing your IRS W-2, some online platforms or tax software may charge service fees for their filing services. It's essential to review the terms and fees before selecting a service for e-filing, ensuring that you're aware of any costs involved, especially if your submission is rejected and you are required to resubmit.

See what our users say

Read user feedback and try pdfFiller to explore all its benefits for yourself
User friendly, intuitive interface ... I am a Realtor and love PDFfiller for quick adjustments to contracts, etc.
Bob C
So far so good. Just starting to use the software. Would like to avoid further surveys in the future. Inasmuch as this is a paid service, I would prefer to work without interruption.
Leslie
See what our users say
Trust Seal
Trust Seal
Trust Seal
Trust Seal
Trust Seal
Trust Seal
Trust Seal
Trust Seal
Rate free form
4.3
satisfied
22 votes

Related Forms

If you believe that this page should be taken down, please follow our DMCA take down process here .
This form may include fields for payment information. Data entered in these fields is not covered by PCI DSS compliance.