If the Social Security Number (SSN) on your W-2 is wrong in any way, then you really shouldn't file your tax return until you get this matter fixed. While the IRS may accept your tax return with an erroneous W-2, and may even process a request for a tax refund, having a SSN incorrect on a W-2 can cause many other kinds of problems for you in the future, not the least of which is a failure to get (any) credit for your W-2 wages with the Social Security Administration (SSA). This is an important consideration, perhaps not so much now, but when you reach retirement age or become disabled -- and draw SSA benefits -- it definitely will be.
So, before you file your tax return, here is what we strongly recommend that you do.
First, approach your employer (or your former employer) and ask them to both issue you a corrected W-2 (known as a W-2C), and to also send a corrected copy to the Social Security Administration.
Second, if they are responsive to you, and willing to comply, then you can use the corrected W-2C document you receive to file your tax return (it may take your employer a few weeks to complete the necessary accounting and paperwork to get you the W-2C).
However, if your employer is not willing to help you, or you cannot make contact with them, then please carefully review the process and procedure outlined at the following IRS webpage. The IRS will then contact your employer on your behalf, and help you further, as described.
https://www.irs.gov/help-resources/tools-faqs/faqs-for-individuals/frequently-asked-tax-questions-an...
Third, if your employer won't forward your W-2C (corrected) information to the SSA, then, after you've completed the IRS process, you can additionally contact the SSA and have your earnings record updated to reflect your accurate information. Here is a link to a short SSA document that describes this function, and shows how to notify the SSA about this issue.
https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10081.pdfThank you for asking this important question.
