What is a W-2 form?
The W-2 form is a crucial document that employers must provide to their employees every year. It outlines the amount of money you've earned and the taxes withheld from your paycheck. This form is essential for filing your taxes accurately, as it helps you report your annual income and calculate any refunds or taxes due. If you're an employee, you'll need this form to ensure your tax return is complete and correct.
What is a W-2 form used for?
The Form W-2 is an essential document for tax reporting. It serves multiple purposes, including:
- To report wages earned by employees.
- To show taxes withheld from paychecks.
- To provide information on Social Security and Medicare earnings.
How to fill out a W-2 form?
- 1
Start by entering your employer identification number (EIN) in box b.
- 2
Fill in the employee's social security number and full name in boxes a and c.
- 3
In box 1, report the total wages, tips, and other compensation.
- 4
Box 2 should include the amount of federal income tax withheld.
- 5
Complete state information in boxes 15 through 20, if applicable.
- 6
Review all information for accuracy before downloading the document.
Who is required to fill out Form W-2?
Employers are responsible for filling out Form W-2 for each employee they have paid a salary, wage, or other compensation.
After completion, Form W-2 is used by employees to prepare their tax returns, indicating earned income and taxes withheld.
When is a W-2 form not required?
Some individuals may not need to fill out a Form W-2. This includes self-employed persons who report their income and expenses on a Schedule C form.
Independent contractors, who receive payment for their services on a project basis, also do not use Form W-2. Instead, they typically need to report their earnings on a Form 1099-NEC.
When is a W-2 form due?
The deadline for the Form W-2 is January 31st following the end of the tax year. This means employers must send the forms to their employees and the IRS by this date.
Meeting this deadline is crucial for both employers and employees to ensure accurate tax reporting and compliance with IRS regulations.
How to get a blank W-2 form?
To get a blank form W-2, visit our platform where we have a template ready in our editor for you to fill out. You don't need to download it from anywhere else. Remember, our website helps you to fill out and download the form, but we don't assist in submitting it.
How to sign W-2 form online?
To sign a W-2 form online, start by visiting PDF Guru. Load your form in the PDF editor, then fill out the necessary information.
After completing the form, you can create an electronic signature. Simply select the sign option, draw your signature, and place it where required.
Where to file a W-2?
The W-2 form must be submitted to the IRS and given to employees. It can be sent online via the SSA's Business Services Online portal.
Alternatively, employers can mail the W-2 to the Social Security Administration if electronic submission is not an option.