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Learn More About Form W-2
WHAT is a W-2
Form W-2 reports earnings and withholdings for an employee of a business. A W-2 form must be provided to the employee (recipient), filed to the Social Security Administration (SSA), and filed to the state agency (where applicable).
WHY do I file W-2?
The IRS requires that all income is reported by businesses and individuals for tax purposes. Failure to do so can result in penalties.
WHO needs to file W-2?
Employers must report wages paid to employees, income taxes withheld, Medicare and Social Security taxes and other applicable withholdings for the calendar year.
WHEN do I file W-2?
W-2 forms are required to be mailed to the recipient by Jan. 31, and e-filed with the SSA by Mar. 31. State filing deadlines vary by state, view state W-2 deadlines.
W-2 Reporting Information
| What to Report | Amount to Report | ||
| Wages, tips and other compensation, including vacation allowances, bonuses, severance pay, certain moving expense payments, some kinds of travel allowances and third-party payments of sick pay for permanent, temporary and seasonal employees. | Amounts vary, see official IRS instructions |
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| Social security and Medicare withholdings, income tax withholdings, and other applicable withholdings such as 401K and pre-tax health insurance. | See official IRS instructions |
