Can You Still File Taxes With No W2?

It is possible to file your taxes even if you do not have your Form W-2. This document, the Wage and Tax Statement, summarizes your annual earnings and withheld taxes. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers procedures and alternative forms for taxpayers without a W-2.

Understanding Why a W2 May Be Missing

Several situations can lead to a taxpayer not having a W-2 form. Employers are required to send W-2s to their employees by January 31st each year. If this deadline passes, the form might be delayed in transit or sent to an incorrect address if you have moved.

A W-2 may also be lost or stolen, or an employer might be unresponsive or no longer in business. A W-2 is only issued by a traditional employer. Income from self-employment, gig work, or independent contracting is not reported on a W-2. Unemployment benefits and certain investment income also do not come with a W-2.

Gathering Required Information for Filing

To file your tax return without a W-2, collect alternative documentation to accurately report your income and withholdings. If an employer’s W-2 is missing, gather your last pay stub for the tax year; this document often shows year-to-date gross wages, federal income tax withheld, and state and local taxes withheld. Bank statements or direct deposit records can also help verify your income. Obtain your employer’s full legal name, address, and Employer Identification Number (EIN), if available, as this information is necessary for a substitute form.

For income not from a traditional employer, different forms are relevant. Independent contractors and gig workers typically receive Form 1099-NEC (Nonemployee Compensation) if they were paid $600 or more by a client. For miscellaneous income, such as rent or awards, Form 1099-MISC may be issued. Unemployment benefits are reported on Form 1099-G (Certain Government Payments). For self-employment or gig income, maintaining detailed records of bank statements, invoices, and business expenses is important, as these are used to calculate your net earnings.

How to Report Income Without a W2

If you are missing a W-2 from an employer, first contact their payroll or human resources department to request a copy. If you have contacted your employer and still have not received the W-2 by the end of February, call the IRS at 800-829-1040. The IRS can then contact your employer to request the missing form.

If you cannot obtain your W-2 in time to file, use Form 4852, “Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement.” On this form, estimate your wages and federal income tax withheld using information from pay stubs or other records. Attach the completed Form 4852 to your Form 1040 when submitting your paper tax return, as returns with Form 4852 cannot be e-filed.

For self-employment or gig income, report your earnings and expenses on Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business) when filing Form 1040. If your net self-employment income is $400 or more, you will also need to pay self-employment taxes, which cover Social Security and Medicare, calculated on Schedule SE. Unemployment compensation, reported on Form 1099-G, is included on Schedule 1. Other income types, such as investment income from Forms 1099-INT or 1099-DIV, are reported on relevant schedules like Schedule B or Schedule D as part of your overall tax return.