Willem Veldhuyzen
140 Comments
Oct 18, 2016
*updated 7-16-2026
Key Takeaways
- Check the payroll portal first since ADP, Paychex, and Workday often allow immediate prior-year W-2 access
- Contact the former employer’s payroll department if portal access is gone and the company still exists
- Request IRS wage and income transcripts if the former employer cannot produce W-2 records on request
- File Form 4852 from your last pay stub if the W-2 is missing at filing time
- PriorTax files prior-year returns once you have your W-2, with expert review and no hidden fees
Getting a W-2 from a previous employer is usually faster than most people expect.
Whether you left a job last year or several years ago, there are seven reliable ways to track down the form to file your taxes.
The right path depends on when you left, how your former employer handled payroll, and how far back you need to go.
Some of these prior year options to file produce the document in minutes. Others take a week or two.
Below are all seven, starting with the fastest, so you can go straight to the one that fits your situation.
Check Your Payroll Portal First
Start here before making any calls.
Most employers use a third-party payroll provider to process paychecks and distribute tax forms, and that provider’s online portal is often still accessible to former employees long after they leave.
The three largest payroll providers are ADP, Paychex, and Workday.
If your old employer used one of them, there is a good chance you can download prior-year tax forms like W-2s directly through the portal right now.
Before anything else, search your old work email account for registration links, welcome messages, or login credentials from these platforms. Many people still have access and simply do not know it.
For ADP, log in at my.adp.com. If your login has expired, use the Forgot User ID flow or look for a former-employee access option on the login page. For Paychex, try their portal here. For Workday, the employer-specific portal URL is typically in an old onboarding or registration email.
Most of these platforms offer electronic delivery of prior-year W-2s. If your former employer enrolled you in paperless delivery, your Form W-2 may be sitting in the portal as a downloadable PDF right now.
If you cannot find login credentials and the platform shows your account as deactivated, move to the next method.
Contact Your Former Employer’s Payroll or HR Department
If the portal does not work, contact the payroll department or human resources department at your former employer directly.
Employers are required by law to keep W-2 records for at least four years after tax deadlines.
In most cases, someone in payroll can locate your records and send a copy without much friction.
When you reach out, have the following ready: your full legal name exactly as it appeared on the original W-2, your Social Security number (SSN), the specific tax year you need, and a mailing address for delivery.
Being specific about the tax year speeds the process considerably.
If your former company has been acquired or merged with another company, do not assume the records are gone. The successor company’s HR department typically inherits payroll records. Search for the acquiring company and contact their HR team directly.
If the employer is unresponsive or has gone out of business, call the IRS at 800-829-1040. The IRS will contact the employer on your behalf and request that they furnish your W-2.
Do this before February 14 of the relevant tax year for the fastest resolution.
Request a Wage and Income Transcript from the IRS
This is the most reliable backup when the employer route has failed or the employer no longer exists.
The Internal Revenue Service maintains wage and income transcript data for the current tax year plus 10 prior years, free of charge. A wage and income transcript shows the income and withholding information reported to the IRS under your Social Security number, drawn from your W-2, Form 1099, and other tax documents.
It contains the same federal income figures as your original W-2 and is fully accepted for tax return preparation.
To access it online, go to IRS.gov and log in to or create an IRS online account.
The identity verification process includes two-factor authentication and takes about 10 minutes the first time.
Once inside your account, select “Get Transcript”, choose “Wage and Income Transcript”, and select the tax year you need. The tax transcript downloads immediately
(** IRS2Go mobile app provides the same access if you prefer to use your phone).
One caveat that trips many people up: current-year W-2 data is typically not posted to the transcript until late May of the following year, after employers submit their filings to the Social Security Administration.
If you check before then and see nothing, that is a timing issue, not a missing record. Check back in June.
Form 1099 data reported under your Social Security number, including any 1099-NEC or 1099-R forms, appears on the same transcript.
If you had multiple income sources in a given year, one transcript retrieval covers all of them.
Mail Form 4506-T to the IRS
For those who cannot use the IRS online system or prefer a paper process, Form 4506-T handles the request by mail.
The full name is “Request for Transcript of Tax Return.” On the form, check Line 8 to request the wage and income transcript, and enter the tax year or years you need. Up to four years can be listed on a single form.
Mail to the IRS address shown in the form instructions for your state of residence. Allow 5 to 10 business days for delivery.
One distinction matters here: Form 4506-T requests a transcript and is free.
Form 4506 (Request for Copy of Tax Return) requests the actual paper return document and costs $30 per tax year, with a longer processing time. If you are filing a paper tax return and need the original document, Form 4506 is the route.
For most prior year filing purposes, the transcript is sufficient.
Visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center
For those who prefer in-person assistance or have difficulty working through the online systems, an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) is a practical option.
Find the nearest TAC at IRS.gov or by calling 800-829-1040. Appointments are required.
Bring a government-issued photo ID and your Social Security number. TAC staff can initiate a transcript request during the appointment and answer questions about your specific situation on the spot.
This is not a step of last resort. For anyone dealing with multiple years of missing W-2s or a complicated tax history, scheduling a TAC appointment is a reasonable first move.
Request Records from the Social Security Administration
The Social Security Administration (SSA) holds W-2 records going back to 1978, further than the IRS.
If you need income records from before 2013, or you specifically need the original W-2 document rather than a transcript, the SSA is the right source.
To request records, submit Form SSA-7050-F4 (Request for Social Security Earnings Information). A non-certified earnings statement is free. A certified W-2 photocopy costs $144 as of 2026, a fee that adjusts annually.
Call SSA at 800-772-1213 for assistance.
The Social Security wages reported on your W-2 feed directly into SSA records, which form the basis of your future Social Security benefit calculations.
That is why the agency holds them for decades.
If You Cannot Get the W-2 in Time: Form 4852
If the tax filing deadline is approaching and you have made a genuine effort to obtain your W-2, the IRS provides a formal option.
Form 4852 is the Substitute for Form W-2.
Complete it using your last pay stub, which captures your wages and taxes withheld for the year. Attach Form 4852 to your Form 1040 in place of the missing W-2.
If your actual W-2 arrives later and the figures differ from what you reported, file an amended return using Form 1040-X.
That is a routine correction and does not carry an automatic penalty.
If the deadline is close and you need more time, file a tax extension using Form 4868 before the deadline passes.
This gives you six additional months to file, though it does not extend the time to pay any tax balance owed.
Form 4852 is not a workaround. It is the process the IRS designed for exactly this situation.
What Is on a W-2 Form
A W-2 is a wage and tax statement.
It reports an employee’s total annual wages and the amount of federal income tax, state tax, and local taxes withheld from their paychecks.
Your employer files a copy with the IRS and the Social Security Administration; you receive copies for your records and your tax return.
The key boxes: Box 1 reports total wages. Box 2 shows federal income tax withheld. Box 3 covers Social Security wages. Box 5 covers Medicare wages. Boxes 18 through 20 report local tax withheld.
Box B carries your employer’s EIN (Employer Identification Number).
Box A carries your Social Security number.
Box 12 reports additional items including retirement plan contributions and health savings account deductions, each identified by a letter code.
W-2 vs. Form 1099: Which One Do You Need?
Employees receive a Form W-2.
Independent contractors receive a Form 1099-NEC.
If you had both types of income in the same year, you may need both documents. Other 1099 variants follow the same general retrieval process: 1099-R for retirement distributions, 1099-G for government payments and unemployment income, 1099-INT for interest income, 1099-DIV for dividends, and 1099-MISC for miscellaneous payments.
Partners in a business receive a Schedule K-1 instead of a W-2.
The IRS wage and income transcript consolidates all of these in a single download, which is one reason it is often the most efficient retrieval option regardless of income type.
What to Do If Your W-2 Has Errors
If you receive your W-2 and find errors in your name, Social Security number, wages, or taxes withheld, contact your former employer’s payroll department immediately and request a corrected W-2 (Form W-2c). Do not file your tax return using an incorrect W-2.
The IRS matches what you report against what your employer filed, and discrepancies generate notices.
Keep your W-2 secure.
It contains your Social Security number, wages, and your employer’s EIN, all of which can be used in identity theft or tax fraud schemes.
Share the form only with your tax professional or directly with the IRS.
Once You Have Your W-2, File Your Prior Year Return
Tracking down the W-2 is typically the harder part. Filing the return is what PriorTax is built for.
PriorTax prepares and files prior year tax returns, fully online, at a fraction of what the major tax companies charge. Every return is reviewed by a dedicated tax professional. There are no hidden fees. The price is transparent before you begin.
One deadline worth knowing: prior year refunds can only be claimed within three years of the original filing deadline.
After that window closes, the IRS keeps the refund. If you are owed money from a prior year, the clock is already running.
Categories:
140 Responses to “How to Get a Copy of Your W-2 Form for Prior Years”
Comments(140)
Angel Hoskey
Jun 22, 2014
I need to get a copy of my 2012 w2, unable to get a response from the employer. Looking to get a new house and the mortgage company requires this form. How do I securely get this document?
Thank You
admin
Jun 24, 2014
Hello Angel,
I would suggest contacting the IRS. You have several options with them of how to obtain a copy of your 2012 W2. Also refer to the IRS website:
Querida
Aug 16, 2014
I need a copy of my W-2 or just the amount the state took from from the previous year. Where can I get that from
admin
Aug 26, 2014
Hi Querida,
You can use the IRS’ “Get Transcript” website tool to retrieve your W2 from last year.
Delica Brown
Apr 21, 2017
You can get a transcript but the state withholding is not on there
admin
May 2, 2017
Correct, the IRS Wage Transcript does not provide your state amounts. You can request your state information (boxes 15-20) of your W-2 directly from your State Department of Revenue.
George
Sep 12, 2014
I need a copy of my 2003 tax return, and there is nowhere get it.
Searched the IRS Website and registered for a transcript and they only have them back to 2004, in my case.
So, the IRS does not have a copy of my 2003 W-2.
I met with the State Tax Board and they only have a “Third Party” document (which they refuse to show me), and the NC DOR says it shows the income and no deductions taken out, which is of course completely incorrect and inaccurate.
If anyone knows how to get one, please let me know. But, also please do not suggest I go to the IRS Website, or The Social Security Administration, or the State Tax Board. I have been to all, and have exhausted those avenues.
The employer from that year sold the business 8 years ago. So, that avenue is gone.
The State Tax Board is stating I owe the taxes they already collected but just didn’t credit into the system. They have nothing but a “Third Party” source that only states income and nothing else, and I have no w-2 to prove that the taxes were paid.
HELP!!!
admin
Sep 17, 2014
Hi George,
Since you have contacted the IRS, the SSA and the State Tax Board, the only other option may be to contact whoever prepared your return for you in hopes that they may possibly have a record for you.
Christy
Dec 19, 2014
I am in EXACTLY the same situation! my previous company has been sold twice and there are no longer any records of my w-2 from the year 2000. The state of Maryland has estimated I owe them over $14k for state taxes because they say I can’t prove state taxes were withheld from my salary. I have gone to the IRS, The SSA and the State Tax Board as well and have had no luck.
I just tried contacting the current company to see if by chance, they have information from the previous company, but unfortunately, I came out with the same result. My last ditch effort is to contact ADP in hopes my previous company used them for payroll. I am hoping ADP has the information I need. If so, I will definitely report back. Best of luck. It’s completely frustrating dealing with these government agencies, knowing there HAS to be a copy of my w-2 somewhere and not being able to obtain it.
Jessica
May 21, 2015
Has anyone had any luck with getting their w-2 with this problem?? Same boat.. 2006 w-2 needed for a Texas resident being forced with Lien on my bank account from California, from when I was a military wife. TIA.
Debra
Feb 5, 2016
Well, I felt i was all alone in this situation of overdue taxes of ancient years. I apparently owe a lot of money to IRS and the Franchise tax board of california for the years of 2003, 2004 and 2005. I called my old job to see if they could send my copies and their business department said they do not hold on to W’2’s from that long a period from employee’s that do not worked their any more. Is that true? Because, this was a nursing facility i worked at and they are still in business. My next question is that I talked with the IRS and Franchise Tax Board about sending me copie’s of my W’2’s from those years and they said they do not have W’2’s from those years because they have nothing to do with keeping employee’s W’2’s for that long a period. Next question, if that’s the case how come they are sending me letters from these years (The Same Years) with to diffent amounts of over $9,000.00 from 2003 and over $7,000.00 for 2004 and that is just IRS need I say more regarding Franchise Tax Board of what I owe them? Because I can. I know about acruing interests on back taxes but how are they informing me of what I owe if they aren”t looking at my w’2’s in which they could send me a copy of so that I can see if I owe them for those years still because I have been moving around a lot due to illness and wanting to be close to family but I also wasn’t at that address anymore to receve those w’2’s I owe. So, is there anyplace that I can write or call for those years of old tax years so that I can start honoring my payments. Which I’m going to have to do anyway to pay them.
HELP! Debra
s
Ruth
Jun 14, 2018
Contact social security 800-772-1213. Very long wait and charge of $86 per year requested but they have all those forms. Just went through this myself. You have to be patient waiting on phone but once you get them on the line they can get you the information for a fee.
Dottie
Mar 10, 2020
I am having this issue. The state put a lien for 1,900 from 2015. Saying they need my state withholding. I had no clue what was going on until I called they need a copy of w2. So the Social security office can help me to get a w2 is that right. I need to get this taken care of. 😏
Tom
Aug 20, 2022
I mailed a request to the SSA abouit 5 months ago requesting a copy of my W2 for 2008. Does anyone know how long it takes for them to respond? I was told to be patient, but how would I define “patient”?
joseph carney
Sep 16, 2014
i need a copy of my w2 forms can you send me a copy on my email please
admin
Sep 17, 2014
Hi Joseph,
As stated in the article, you will need to contact either your employer or the IRS for a copy of your W-2 form. Unfortunately, we do not have access to that information.
Michael Dates
Feb 11, 2017
Can you please send me a copy of my w2 foam for 2015 and 2014
admin
Apr 3, 2017
Unfortunately, I cannot obtain your income statements for you. However you can request a transcript of your wages online from the IRS by clicking here.
Delica Brown
Apr 21, 2017
Can you get a copy from the state
admin
May 3, 2017
If you would like a copy of your state information. You can contact your state department of revenue for your state amounts. We will not be able to obtain this information on your behalf.
Piercile Dort
Feb 5, 2018
I need a w-2 from for 2015
John
Sep 20, 2014
Hello, I got a new job this year and left my old one. I had recently contacted my former employer for this year’s W-2 and he has not sent it to me and it has been over 2 months since I requested it. I have also sworn into the Navy and will be leaving soon which is why I would like to have it early. What can I do if my former employer continues to neglect my request?
admin
Sep 22, 2014
Hi John,
If your former employer is refusing to issue you a W2, you can file an IRS substitute W-2 form on your own (Form 4852), using the information from your records. The IRS will then review your information and handle the rest from there.
You can use this form for any of the missing documents in the title of the form.
nick
Oct 30, 2014
Hi, my problem involves me attempting to buy a house, I need a w2 from 2012, only problem is my former employer is refusing to issue one, and after calling the IRS they did no recieve a copy from my former employer, what are my options for retrieving my w2?
admin
Oct 31, 2014
Hi Nick,
You will need to request a 2012 transcript from the IRS, as opposed to the actual W-2 form.
Tameka
Jul 13, 2015
Is there a fee for the transcript?* I just need it as proof of employment for a job
admin
Jul 15, 2015
Hi Tameka,
The transcript is free of charge. The IRS only has the mail option available as of lately. However, you should receive it in 5-10 business days.
Denisha
Dec 9, 2014
I received a letter from the IRS stating that I owed about $1, 000 because I did not file 2 of my w2’s from 2012, and they know I received income from these 2 particular jobs. But the person I let file my 2012 taxes is now deceased, and she never got to return me my paper work, so Im lost and do not know what to do…Can someone please give me some insite on this situation. Because if the IRS claims they were not filed can I file them with my 2014 taxes if I call my previous jobs to get copies??? This tax stuff is so confusing to me….
admin
Dec 17, 2014
Hi Denisha,
You can file your 2012 return along with your 2014 return. Your employer should be able to provide you with copies of your 2012 W-2 forms. If not, the IRS will have transcripts that you can request right from their website. These transcripts will provide you with the pay information you need to file.
Angie
Dec 10, 2014
I understand that you can get a copy of the transcript but is there no way to get a copy of the W-2 from the IRS? Many mortgage companies, will not take the transcript.
admin
Dec 17, 2014
Hi Angie,
You will most likely need to contact the employer directly for the W-2. The transcripts will typically suffice but if not, I also suggest contacting the IRS for further instruction on the documents that they can provide to you.
carrie
Dec 28, 2014
I haven’t filed my taxes since 2010 and I have worked some every year since but never received any of my w2s. How do I get my w2 for the previous years if I don’t remember every place I worked?
admin
Dec 30, 2014
Hi Carrie,
You can request a transcript through the IRS website. You can download and print your transcript immediately or request the transcript be mailed to your address on record.
Kourtney
Jan 18, 2015
I use to have a different job and different adress , I called them and told them my adress changed so they would send the w2 form to the right place but they can’t change my adress because I no long work their will changingy adress at the post office fix this and what if it is too late ??
admin
Jan 28, 2015
Hi Kourtney,
I suggest contacting the post office. They most likely have sent it back to your employer if you no longer live at the old address on file.
Oralia
Jan 27, 2015
I found the answer to my question on a previous question. Thanks a bunchs to this site!
runtavious malcom
Jan 29, 2015
I was in prision in 2014 and my sister lost my w2 so wat do I do about getting a copy of it now and filing them
admin
Feb 11, 2015
Hello,
I suggest contacting the IRS and requesting a transcript. This will provide all information listed on your W-2 that is needed to file a tax return.
Bernadette Hill
Feb 1, 2015
please help me get my w2 forms i lost them back in 2012 i really need to get another copy i worked for company called fieldworks for politics getting potions sighned and i lost them in the process of moving so piease help me and thank u have a bless day
admin
Feb 11, 2015
Hi Bernadette,
You have two options. You can either contact your employer who may still have a copy with their pay roll department OR you can contact the IRS and request a transcript from that year. A transcript will have any information listed on a W-2 form that is needed to file a tax return.
lisa schlotthauer
Apr 7, 2015
I’m helping a friend out .. How do I retrieve w2s. From 2012, 2013, 2014 years can’t remember all places worked and need to file for court ?
admin
Apr 27, 2015
Hi Lisa,
The simplest and least expensive route to take would be to contact all past employers for those year. However, there is another way to locate your W-2 information by contacting the IRS. You will need to submit three transcript requests (one for each year). Keep in mind that there is a fee for each W-2 that you request.
Getter Done
Apr 10, 2015
Trying to assist in catching up tax filings which as well as I can figure out go back to 2010. Have the W-2 forms and am ready to go but wanted to see if there is a way to confirm that the last filing done was actually for the 2009 tax year…can’t find a copy in any searching that’s been done. A divorce happened and paperwork is askew! Would appreciate any and all help but feel as thought I’d like to have confirmation of last file date before I proceed.
admin
Apr 29, 2015
Hello,
Not a problem! What you will need to do is request a transcript on the IRS website. You can choose to view the transcript online or receive a copy by mail. The transcript will show any tax return transactions made for those years along with other pertinent information that may be useful to you before proceeding to file prior year tax returns.
Vicky Kozak
Apr 28, 2015
Hi,
I am helping a friend file back taxes and we need to request W-2’s for 2009-2010-2011. We have the following ones 2012-2013-2014 ready to file at the tax accountant. I see that the IRS charges $57 for each year, but the form 4506 that I printed out says it is $50 for each year. I want to make sure that we send in the correct amount. Also she needs to request 1099’s will the IRS supply all information from those years for that cost?? Please let me know.
Thank you
admin
May 11, 2015
Hello Vicky,
When completing any forms for the IRS, you are responsible for the amount due on the most recent year of that form. In your case, it looks like the IRS is only charging $50.00 per request. The transcript that they provide you with will include all income earned by you and reported by your employer. As long as your employer reported the income that you earned on your 1099 form to the IRS, then that amount will be seen on the transcript that you receive.
Paola
Jul 2, 2015
Hello, I just received a letter from the IRS saying I have to pay $3,900 in taxes. These are the taxes that my former employer withheld. I called the IRS and they said they never received a W-2 from my former employer. I did receive one, but I lost it and my employer wont send me another. What else can I do?
admin
Aug 3, 2015
Hi Paola,
This is a tricky situation as your former employer should be facing penalty fees for not submitting employee W-2 forms on time. The IRS insists that you contact them directly in this case. I suggest digging up any and all pay statements that you can find from when you worked with that employer. This will help your case with the IRS.
krys
Jul 12, 2015
my husband may need to verify employment for a company that is no longer in business- he will need this to get the job he’s been offered. how long is it going to take and does it really cost $57? Is it something that the bg company NexisLexis shouln’t be requesting?
admin
Jul 17, 2015
Hi Krys,
Many companies will accept a transcript over the actual tax return copy which costs $57. The transcript is free of charge and will arrive by mail within 5-10 days. Yo can visit the IRS transcript page HERE.
Folu
Jul 18, 2015
I am about to file for my fiancé and parts of the documents needed at the immigration is my W2 but can’t find my 2013 w2 form.My employer can’t help me with that told me to call the IRS,i see that getting the W2 takes months.Do you know if it’s okay to give immigration office the transcript of just get the W2.
admin
Jul 29, 2015
Hi Folu,
In most situations, a transcript from the IRS will be sufficient documentation. After taking a look at the immigration website, an IRS transcript is listed as an acceptable form of documentation referring to you and your spouse. You can apply for a transcript by mail on the IRS website page and it should arrive within 5-10 business days.
Victor
Feb 1, 2016
Last year I did not file my taxes I do not have my w2 how do I go about recieveing the w2 so I can file last year taxes
admin
Feb 1, 2016
Hi Victor,
The quickest way to retrieve a copy of your W-2 form is to ask your employer or their payroll provider for a reissued statement.
If that doesn’t work, you can order a copy of your W-2 from the Social Security Administration. They’re free if you need them for a Social Security-related reason; otherwise it’s $37 per W-2.
You also have the option to retrieve wage and income transcripts from the IRS free of charge. They’re not exactly copies of your W-2, but they contain everything on your W-2 except the state and local information.
Awilda
Feb 5, 2016
Hi, how do I go about retrieve my state tax informing from a previous year 2012? I got the transcript from the IRS but it doesn’t have state tax info. I need it to file.
Thanks in advance.
admin
Feb 5, 2016
Hi Awilda,
You can obtain the state information that is reported on a W-2 by going to your state’s revenue agency government website. You didn’t mention which state you need so I will provide New York’s as an example HERE. It may look a bit different depending on your state but they all provide the same basic services. As you will see on the NY site, they now allow you to print your transcript from their site instead of having to wait for it to be mailed to you. This is a fairly new feature so it may not be available for all states. If you had more than one state on your 2012 W2, simply go to the website for each state you need.
seana
Feb 28, 2016
I filed my 2015 taxes I got a letter in the mail saying they are holding my taxes because I didnt file in 2013.I dont have the w2s for that and the company well was a telemarketing place they gave me the run around.I just need the info off of my w2s the income and what they took out. How do I get that without paying a arm and leg for it.
admin
Feb 29, 2016
Hi Seana,
You can request a copy of your W-2 Form from the Social Security Administration HERE. It is a free service if your reason is Social Security-related and $37 each for unrelated reasons. You can also request a copy of your W-2 form from the IRS for free.
PAULA
Mar 28, 2016
WHERE WOULD I MAIL MY REQUEST IN ORDER TO RECEIVE PRIOR YEARS W-2’S
admin
Mar 29, 2016
Hi Paula,
The address to mail your request to the IRS is listed on page 2 of the IRS Form 4506. It depends on which state you live in so be sure to see the address with corresponding state.
Melanie
Mar 30, 2016
My boyfriend has not filed his taxes for the past 4 years. He does not have a copy of his w2 and has had several jobs that he cannot even remember where he worked. Is there a database or something that I can find his w2 from previous years? help, I’m overwhelmed! Thanks
admin
Mar 31, 2016
Hi Melanie,
As long as your boyfriend’s employer’s submitted W-2 information to the IRS (which they are required to do), then he can call the IRS and they will be able to assist. To contact the correct representatives, he will need to call 800-829-1040 and verify his identity.
Sabrina greene
Apr 11, 2016
I just want to get my w-2 forms from 2012 and 2013 so I can file them.
admin
Apr 15, 2016
Hi Sabrina,
The easiest way to do this would be to contact your employer (or payroll provider used) for those years. If you are unable to get in contact with them, then you’ll want to contact the Social Security Administration. There is a $37 fee for each year if you are requesting these for tax filing.
terry
Jun 27, 2016
How do i find old tax books and sheet to file? I need the last 10 yrs
admin
Jun 28, 2016
Hi Terry,
You can prepare your tax returns dating back to 2005 right from our website. We also offer free phone and livechat support so you can reach out to our tax team if you should have any questions throughout the process.
Brent Andrew Erwin
Jul 2, 2016
I am looking for my W2’s for 2012,2013 and 2014. Can you help?
admin
Jul 5, 2016
Hi Brent,
If you cannot get in touch with your employer(s) from those years, you can request this information from the IRS by following the instructions in the article above.
Lyn
Jul 16, 2016
Hi there,
My mom and I have been having an issue obtaining a copy of her last year’s w-2. I urgently need it for school. The university has requested several financial documents to verify for financial aid purposes; however I have not been able to obtain a copy of her w-2. We tried talking with her employer, now former employer, but so far we haven’t received anything. Now, at her work, there are new owners/employers and they do not hold a copy of her w-2s. To obtain the copy from the IRS would take several months and and I need a copy of it asap. What else can I try?
admin
Jul 19, 2016
Hi Lyn,
You have another option as long as your mother has filed her tax return for last year. You can request a transcript from the IRS via mail or online. There are several different transcript types that you can request and arrive by mail within 5-10 business days. Online versions can be viewed upon submission. You’ll find these options on the IRS website HERE.
Willie
Jul 21, 2016
How do I obtain a w-2 from 12 years back. The company is now out of busines
admin
Aug 1, 2016
Hi Willie,
In order to obtain a past year W-2 in your specific situation, you’ll want to file IRS form 4852. You can complete the form with the instructions provided right on the form.
Jessica
Sep 25, 2016
Hello, I am in the process of buying a house so I need the last two year w-2 forms . However , I only have year 2015 and 2013 no 2014. Is getting a w-2 form from a previous employer fast ? I need it before two months so I can’t get it from IRS.
admin
Oct 14, 2016
Hi Jessica,
The length of time it takes to get a W-2 from an employer depends on what payroll provider they use. It will, however, take less time than it would to receive one from the IRS. In most cases, employers can log into their payroll system online and print it instantly for you.
Robert Smith
Oct 19, 2016
I need my employee id number and my state withheld for 2014 to complete my taxs
admin
Oct 21, 2016
Hi Robert,
A W-2 form will provide this information to you. I suggest contacting your employer. If they will not provide you with a copy, you can order a transcript following the instructions in the blog post above.
Megan
Nov 8, 2016
Help please! I did not file taxes a few years. I tried contacting that employer for my W2s and they do not have them from far back. I need these W2s. Does the gov have them if they were never filed?
admin
Nov 8, 2016
Hi Megan,
Employers are required to submit W-2 forms for employees to the IRS at the same time that they issue them to employees. The IRS has access to your W-2 forms even if you did not file your taxes for those years. Follow the instructions discussed in the article above to retrieve copies. You will use forms 4607 or 4607-T.
Charlie Cab
Dec 7, 2016
HI ,
It is my first time filing taxes i worked in california for a while and well I do not know how to file taxes at all. And i have another problem I am currently living out of the US and i want to get my taxes done. But i do not no how to file taxes yet along file them from out of the country. I would like some advice on what i can do please.
Thanks
admin
Dec 22, 2016
Hi Charlie,
You’ve come to the right place! Assuming you have access to the internet, you can file right on our website, Priortax.com. Our application is very user-friendly and easy to navigate. We offer free customer support via phone, live chat and email so you will be able to utilize that as well from out of the country. To get started, you will simply create an account with a unique username and password. Keep in mind, that you can begin submitting 2016 returns on our website January 1st, 2017.
Omar
Jan 23, 2017
I have not done my W2 in about 6 years how can I get those W-2 to file them this year if that’s even possible
admin
Feb 7, 2017
Hi Omar,
The IRS keeps copies of past W-2 forms (and all tax documents under your Social Security Number) from the last 7-10 years so you should be able to retrieve them right from the IRS. Follow the instructions listed under Option #3 above.
david martin
Feb 3, 2017
did not file the years from 12,13,and 14 but cant find my w-2s how can I get them not going through my ex-employers?
admin
Feb 3, 2017
Hi David,
Speaking with a previous employer can definitely be difficult. Your best bet is to request your W-2 information from the IRS. You can do so by referring to Option #3 above.
Mitchell Gilbert
Feb 12, 2017
I lived in Arizona in 2015 and in 2016 I was in Missouri but haven’t received my w2s due to living arrangements and number of companies employed with. please help me
admin
May 5, 2017
Hello Mitchell,
You can obtain your W-2 information from the IRS and your previous employers. You may contact the IRS at 1800-829-1040 or order your transcript online or get it by mail from the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript
PETER FLOMO
Feb 18, 2017
I NEED COPIES OF MY 2010 W2 AND 1099.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP
admin
Apr 3, 2017
You can request a transcript of your wages online from the IRS. Click here if you wish to do so. However, the IRS wage transcript does not include your state information. You will be required to contact your state authority for your state amounts.
Roger Cox
Mar 1, 2017
I need to get a copy of my 2009 W2 showing state and local tax payments. How can I acquire this info if I’m unable to get this W2 from my former employer?
admin
Apr 3, 2017
You can request a transcript of your income online from the IRS here. However, the IRS will only provide you with your federal amounts. In order to obtain your State information, please contact your State Department of Revenue. Once you have gathered your federal and state information you can prepare your income tax return at Priortax.
Huong Bui
Mar 5, 2017
I need a copy of my 2015 tax return. I did my Tax return online but I forgot print it . Please let me know how to get it. It is very important for me.
admin
Mar 30, 2017
Provided that you prepared your tax return with http://www.Priortax.com, simply log into your 2015 account to download a PDF copy of your return.
Huong Bui
Mar 5, 2017
I need a copy of my 2015 tax return. How to get it. Please send me the link
admin
Mar 30, 2017
Providing that you prepared your 2015 return with http://www.priortax.com. Click the link provided to log into your account to download a PDF copy of your 2015 return.
Huong Bui
Mar 5, 2017
I need a copy of my 2015 tax return. I did my Tax return online but I forgot print it . Please let me know how to get it. It is very important for me.
admin
Mar 29, 2017
If you prepared your return with http://www.priortax.com,simply log into your 2015 account and click on the link (click here to download your return) provided on your status page to download a PDF copy of your return.
Huong Bui
Mar 5, 2017
I need a copy of my 2015 tax return
admin
Mar 30, 2017
If you prepared your income tax return with Priortax, simply log into your 2015 return to download a PDF copy of your return. Else, if you prepared your return with another tax preparer you can request a copy of your return from that tax preparer.
If you need to obtain a copy of a return that you have already filed with the IRS, you can request a transcript of your return here
Kenneth B Fowler
Jun 13, 2017
I need a copy of my 2000 tax return. I am being assessed by the state of Michigan after 17 years. They state they never got a return. I have no records from that far back. I tried the IRS without any success. Any suggestions.
admin
Jun 13, 2017
It would seem your last resort for documents is to contact your previous employers for income information so that you can prepare a state return for MI. Otherwise, you might have to rely on estimates. Have you considered contacting MI for an income transcript? They must have some record(s) of income under your name if they are assessing you for an un-filed tax return.
Nichole Short
Jun 27, 2017
How can I get my employment history from 2009 to 2013 without having to pay for it? I do not remember what jobs I had within these times and I’m needing this information to assist with my medical bills. Please help!
admin
Jun 27, 2017
You can request your income transcripts from the IRS and the State offices for any information for those income statements that you may have received for those years. Unfortunately, there are no other avenues for you to find this information, so it would be best for you to contact them as soon as possible.
Judy,Rodriguez
Jul 10, 2017
How can I get a copy of my taxes for the year 1973,1974,1975 2 collect a pension for AliceCRodriguez
admin
Jul 12, 2017
Hello Judy,
It is unlikely that the IRS has tax transcripts going back to these tax years. However, if you have prepared your return with a tax accountant, it is possible to retrieve your tax returns from your preparer.
glenn
Jul 24, 2017
I need a copy of my w2s for 1990 through 1992 to find my 401 k can you please tell me how
admin
Jul 25, 2017
You may either contact the employer who issued you the W-2, or you may retrieve an IRS income transcript of the W-2 information that was reported to the IRS by the employer. You could also contact the broker or company that handled your 401K account. It is very possible neither of these sources keep records that far back. Unfortunately, these are all the options we are aware of.
Abby Kane
Jul 24, 2017
How long does a company that does payroll/W-2’s have to keep the information? My boyfriend lost a w-2 in a fire and needs it to receive his FASFA. He called and the company gave him the run around, so should he try again, it was in 2015. He needs it by Sept. 23 and the IRS could take up to three months to get it.
admin
Jul 25, 2017
We cannot answer questions about record keeping requirements for employers. However, if you are unable to retrieve your W-2 from the employer, you could try retrieving an IRS income transcript which should include the W-2 income that was reported to the IRS by your employer.https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript
jaquima
Jul 29, 2017
trying to get a copy of w2’s for my son from 2015 howerver he didn’t actuall file because he was still in high school how should I go about obtaining a copy.
admin
Jul 31, 2017
As outline from our blog, you either need to contact the previous employer, contact the payroll department that handled your son’s w2 or speak with the IRS for a transcript of your information. For further information please refer to the blog above.
Susan
Aug 2, 2017
My SS account says I had zero income in 2013, so I need to furnish them a W2 from that year. My boss printed out a replacement, but was unable to change the year from the current tax year to 2013. My boss suggested whiting it out and writing over it. Is that a suitable answer?
admin
Aug 8, 2017
When it comes to any documentation that you are using for your tax filing as well as providing a copy to the IRS when filing your return, it is best to provide and use documents that are not changed or edited in any way. You may need to request an income transcript from the IRS for your federal information and your state offices for your state information.
moment
Sep 4, 2017
Awesome pߋst.
Edward
Oct 31, 2017
I have a company that’s is trying offer a job, they need my W2s for the past 5 years, I’m assuming the 4506-T would work…. whats the fastest way to get this information. The company game me an email and fax # about an hour ago.
admin
Nov 1, 2017
Currently, the IRS request for Transcripts of your wages online service is unavailable. Therefore, you may have to send your request via mail. Please contact an IRS representative to determine how long this process will take.
Monica
Jan 18, 2018
Is their anyway I can a copy of my the whole tax 4506 if I just go to the offices ?
admin
Jan 18, 2018
If you are in search of your prior tax year income statements, you can request these forms from your previous employers for additional copies.
However, if you are requesting a copy of your accepted returns, you must file form 4506 with the IRS for the returns to be sent to you by mail.
Thomas S Cardwell
Feb 17, 2018
I contacted the IRS, yesterday 2/16, was on hold for approx 30 min..Talking with a very nice lady..Explained my situation of needing my W2s from 2013-2015 from a company that sold out and I was unable to make contact. I provided a fax # to her..received those perfect transcripts 10 minutes later and no charge,, When calling and you get a prompt saying “Did you get a notification letter from the IRS?” Use that one, As I said , you may be on hold for a while, so be patient and don t call on Mondays.
minnie thompson
Mar 10, 2018
I never got a copy of my w2 for the year 2017 How do I get a copy mailed to me
Manisha Hansraj
Mar 16, 2018
Hello Minnie,
You will need to contact your employer to provide you with your W-2 statement or request an income transcript from the IRS in order for you to file your tax return.
Andrea
Mar 15, 2018
I have not filed state and federal 2016 & 2017 taxes due to misplaced income statements (W-2s, 1099-Rs’ 1099-Misc, Mortgage Interest, etc). Can I get copies of these reported income documents from the IRS directly, even though I’ve not yet filed? IRS form 4056-T seems to be transcript requests of filed taxes. My taxes are unfiled, so what should I do? Contacting the employers and other payers who issued me these documents is not an option, so I would like to go to IRS and request instead. Thank you!
Manisha Hansraj
Mar 16, 2018
Hello Andrea,
The IRS can provide you an income transcript of what your employer or any income statement that has been reported to the IRS. In order to request an income transcript, you do not need to have a filed tax return. For example, the federal tax information you will see on a W-2 statement will be provided to you by the IRS since your employer is required to report this information. You may click this IRS link for more information on how to request an income transcript.
Manisha Hansraj
Mar 16, 2018
Hello Andrea,
The IRS can provide you an income transcript of what your employer or any income statement that has been reported to the IRS. You do not need to have a filed tax return. For example, the federal tax information you will see on a W-2 statement will be provided to you by the IRS since your employer is required to report this information. You may click this IRS link for more information on how to request an income transcript.
Susie c mitchell
Mar 27, 2018
how can I look at my w2forms from 2010 to see if I file my daughter as and dependent
admin
Mar 28, 2018
You will need to contact the IRS for a copy of your prior year return, or tax transcript. You can retrieve this via the link provided from the IRS website.
TERESA HARRIS
Mar 28, 2018
need 2016 2017 transscripts and w2s form
admin
Mar 28, 2018
In order to retrieve this information, it would be best to either contact your previous employers for W2 Form copies or the IRS via this link
TERESA HARRIS
Mar 28, 2018
need for bankruptcy thanks for your help
Amanda Knight
Jun 28, 2018
Hi i am needing a copy of my 2015 w2 from my last job I’ve tried contacting the company but everything i have got no one and then i even tried to get one online. So i went about signing up and doing what was asked but it shuts down and tells me they can’t finish it and doesn’t tell me what else to do. Can i please get some help thanks
Edward W Eckert
Aug 4, 2018
One of my W2s is wrong and it has and is affecting my social security checks.How can I correct that and get the money tha’ts due to me because of the false reporting of the W2 for a given year.PS,my former company is no longer in business so I can’t get a copy from them.What can I do to rite this error?.
Jay Lambert
Mar 31, 2019
Can you help me get past year w2
Manisha Hansraj
Apr 2, 2019
You will need to either contact your previous employer, or request an income transcript from the IRS.
Andre Sanders
Sep 9, 2019
I need to get 2013 thru 2017 w2s from various employers, I don’t remember jobs I’ve had and I never filed a tax refund because I’m disabled and thought I didn’t have to file so how do I obtain the previous w2s?
Manisha Hansraj
Oct 3, 2019
You can request a Wage or Income Transcript (Form 4506-T) from the IRS by doing it online or by mail.
Adam Stuck
Mar 20, 2020
I need to file a tax return for 2013, but the employer I worked for is now out of business, and I have no clue as to how to contact anyone in charge of payroll for that company to retrieve my W-2s. Since the IRS won’t have these, due to not filing, how can I go about retrieving this information so I can file?
Manisha Hansraj
Mar 26, 2020
The IRS has a system to retrieve W-2 information. Simply, request this information from the IRS by requesting an income transcript. All W-2 statements are reported to the IRS. However, you are only able to obtain federal amounts. In order to obtain any information for state with holdings, contact your state department of revenue.
What is a state Department
Jun 30, 2020
I need copays of w2
Manisha Hansraj
Aug 6, 2020
Please contact your previous employer or the IRS for a wage and income transcript.
Haroutyun Gevorkyan
Feb 2, 2022
I lost my 1989 and 1990 Tax papers with w-2 forms (also pay stubs). I worked also for the same company in 1992. Company out of business at the end of 1991. IRS has no records but CA Franchise board shows that I filed tax and even I had tax refund for that years. How I can found my payroll accountant. I was in payroll in that company. Also I forgot the Tax preparer name or address for that years.
Thomas Richard DeGraff Jr
Jul 27, 2022
I have requested a copy of my W2 from SSA for the tax year 2008 and 2009. I read on internet that these are available going all the way back to 1978. It has been 4 months since I submitted (by snail mail) my request. Has anyone requested previous W2’s from SSA? About how long did it take? I did call a phone number in Maryland and the agent stated that they only provide copies to citizens of the USA that live overseas. Has anyone had any luck with obtaining W2 from SSA?