Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Receive a W-2

mariadrg2021
Jul 14
2 min read

Every year, employers issue Form W-2 to their employees. But many people don’t fully understand what this form means for them or what their rights and responsibilities are once they receive it. Here’s a clear guide to help you navigate tax season with confidence.

✅ What Is a W-2 Form?

Form W-2, also known as the Wage and Tax Statement, reports:

Your total income earned through employment
Taxes withheld for Social Security, Medicare, and federal/state income taxes
Other benefits or deductions (such as retirement plan contributions)

⚖️ Your Rights as an Employee

Right to Receive Your W-2 on Time
- Employers must provide your W-2 by January 31st.
- If you don’t receive it, you have the right to request it directly from your employer or report the delay to the IRS.
Right to Accurate Information
- The information on your W-2 should match your final pay stub of the year.
- If you notice errors, you can request a corrected W-2 (known as a W-2c).
Right to Use Your W-2 for Tax Filing
- You’ll need your W-2 to file your personal tax return.
- If you work multiple jobs, you should receive one W-2 from each employer.

Your Responsibilities

Check Your W-2 Carefully
- Review your Social Security number, name, wages, and tax withholdings.
- Report discrepancies immediately.
Keep It Safe
- Store your W-2 securely. It contains sensitive personal information that could be used for identity theft.
Use It to File Your Taxes
- Your W-2 must be attached to your federal and state tax returns, whether filing electronically or by mail.
- Keep a copy for your records for at least three years.

What If You Don’t Receive Your W-2?

Contact your employer first.
If still unresolved by February 15, call the IRS for assistance.
You may still file using Form 4852 as a substitute, but this can delay your refund.