How can I get my old W-2 online for free?
John Hall
Updated on March 24, 2026
Visit the IRS Online If you filed your tax return electronically, you can get a free transcript of your W-2. Although a transcript is not a photocopy, it includes all the information that was on your original W-2 form. You can get a transcript up to 10 years after you filed a tax return.
How far back can I get a copy of my W-2?
The IRS keeps copies of past W-2s (and all tax documents under your Social Security Number) from the last 7-10 years. The W-2s are not available from the IRS until one year after they were filed. You will need to fill out Form 4506 (be sure to write clearly and sign). The service fee is $50 for each request.
How can I get a copy of my W-2 if I lost it 2020?
If you haven’t received yours by mid-February, here’s what you should do:
- Contact your employer. You should first ask your employer to give you a copy of your W-2.
- Contact the IRS. If you exhaust your options with your employer and you have not received your W-2, call the IRS at 800-829-1040.
- File on time.
How do I get my old W-2 from previous employer?
If you can’t get your Form W-2 from your employer and you previously attached it to your paper tax return, you can order a copy of the entire return from the IRS for a fee. Complete and mail Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return along with the required fee. Allow 75 calendar days for us to process your request.
How to get a copy of past W2S for free?
How to Get a Copy of Past W2s for Free 1 Contact Your Employer. 2 Call Your Tax Preparer. 3 Visit the IRS Online. 4 Check with the Social Security Administration (SSA) If the reason you need a past-year W-2 form is because of a Social Security issue, the SSA will provide a copy of …
How to get your old IRS W-2 forms?
1. Mail Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, to the IRS. This form allows you to request the wage and income transcript and a transcript of your tax return or tax account activity. The transcripts will arrive in about three weeks.
Do you need a transcript for Form W-2?
This transcript doesn’t include any state or local tax information reported by your employer to SSA on Form W-2. If you e-filed your tax return or you didn’t attach your Form W-2 to your paper return, then use one of the transcript options above.
What is the substitute form for the W-2 form?
File your return using Form 4852, “Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement. ” If you are waiting for a replacement W-2 so you can file your taxes for the tax year that is currently due, by completing form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement.
