More and more I am hearing from clients whose former employers are failing to send them W2s. You don’t have to feel helpless in this situation. There are specific steps that we can take to get that W2 information.
AND you can possibly file your returns without that official W2.
Don’t be paralyzed! Read this memo and then call, text, or email me so I can assist you.
Most people get their W-2 forms by the end of January. Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, shows your income and the taxes withheld from your pay for the year. You need it to file an accurate tax return.
If you haven’t received your form by mid-February, here’s what you should do:
- Contact your Employer. Ask your employer (or former employer) for a copy. Be sure they have your correct address.
- Call the IRS. If you are unable to get a copy from your employer, you may call the IRS at 800-829-1040. The IRS will send a letter to your employer on your behalf. You’ll need the following when you call:
- Your name, address, Social Security number and phone number;
- Your employer’s name, address and phone number;
- The dates you worked for the employer; and
- An estimate of your wages and federal income tax withheld in 2015. You can use your final pay stub for these amounts.
- File on Time. Your tax return is normally due on or before April 18, 2016. Use Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, if you don’t get your W-2 in time to file. Estimate your wages and taxes withheld as best as you can. If you can’t get it done by the due date, ask for an extra six months to file. Use Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, to request more time. You can also e-file a request for more time. Do it for free with IRS Free File.
- Correct if Necessary. You may need to correct your tax return if you get your missing W-2 after you file. If the tax information on the W-2 is different from what you originally reported, you may need to file an amended tax return. Use Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, to make the change.
Each and every taxpayer has a set of fundamental rights they should be aware of when dealing with the IRS. These are your Taxpayer Bill of Rights. Call or email me to get more information.
Click here to ask me any question you may have.
Please reach out to me without hesitation with any tax, business or accounting question, and to schedule a consultation.
Tax Laws are complex.
It is very easy to make mistakes that can incur penalties.
Do you have a Tax, Accounting or Business Question?
Call Me Immediately. (732) 673-0510.
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ignoring your Phone Calls and Emails?
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Remember,
“If We Aren’t Working For You, Then You Aren’t Working At Your Best”
Chris Whalen, CPA
(732) 673-0510
79 Oak Hill Road
Red Bank, NJ 07701
www.chriswhalencpa.com
