Do You Need to Attach W-2 to 1040?
The procedure for handling your W-2 with a Form 1040 is determined by your filing method. Understand the correct steps to ensure your return is accepted.
Filing your annual income tax return involves submitting Form 1040. A key document for this process is Form W-2, the Wage and Tax Statement, provided by your employer. This form summarizes your total earnings for the year and the taxes already withheld from your paychecks. The actions you need to take with your W-2 depend entirely on your chosen filing method.
Requirements for Paper Filers
When you file a paper tax return by mail, you are required to attach a physical copy of your Form W-2. You must attach Copy B of the form to the front of your Form 1040. The instructions for Form 1040 direct filers to staple or paper clip the W-2 to the designated area on the first page. This ensures the IRS can verify the wage and withholding information you reported.
If you worked for multiple employers during the year, you will have more than one W-2, and you must attach all of your W-2 forms to your single Form 1040. Failing to attach the required W-2s can lead to processing delays, as a missing W-2 will halt the IRS’s verification process. This can delay any refund you might be expecting and possibly trigger a notice from the IRS requesting the missing documentation.
Requirements for Electronic Filers
When you file your taxes electronically, you do not mail or physically attach your W-2 to your return. Instead, the information from your W-2 is transmitted digitally to the IRS along with the rest of your tax return data. Tax preparation software will prompt you to enter the figures from your W-2, such as wages and taxes paid.
It is important to transcribe the numbers from your W-2 into the software accurately, as discrepancies could lead to processing issues or an IRS inquiry. After you have successfully e-filed your return, you should keep the physical copies of your W-2s with your personal tax records for at least three years.
Handling a Missing or Incorrect W-2
Employers must send W-2s to employees by January 31. If you have not received yours by early February, contact the employer to request it. If you cannot get the form from your employer, you can call the IRS for assistance, and they may contact the employer on your behalf. If you are still unable to obtain your W-2 by the tax filing deadline, you can use Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2. To complete this form, you will need to estimate your wages and withheld taxes accurately, using your final pay stub as a reference.
If you receive a W-2 with incorrect information, contact your employer for a corrected Form W-2c, Corrected Wage and Tax Statement. Do not file with incorrect information; wait for the corrected form to ensure your return is accurate.