Can I file my taxes without a W2

[DoninGA · Accepted solution]

Your employer has until January 31 to provide you with a W-2 either by mail or through a website.  Make sure that your employers have your current mailing address.  If you try to file a return without waiting for the W-2 and the IRS receives your W-2 then your tax return will either be rejected or the IRS will hold your tax return for several weeks or months to investigate the discrepancy.

If you do not receive the W-2 after early February, see this IRS website on how to proceed - https://www.irs.gov/uac/missing-form-w2-irs-can-help

See this TurboTax support FAQ for a missing W-2 - https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1901028-what-if-it-s-february-but-i-still-don-t-have-my-w-2

[TomD8]

You can file without a W-2 if you want, but if you do you run the risk that the information on your W-2 will be different than what you entered on your return.  Then you'll be faced with having to do an amended return.  It's usually best to wait until you have all your documents in hand.  Also, the IRS doesn't even begin processing returns until late January.

[MayaD]

No, your need to report your W-2 income on your tax return.

If you didn't receive your W-2:

• Call your employer and ask them to send it to you.
• Call the IRS for assistance at 800-829-1040. The IRS will call the employer or payroll provider and advise them to send you your W-2.
• After notifying the IRS, you can either continue waiting for your W-2 or paper-file your return using Form 4852 and your last pay stub..

[HelenC12]

You can file a conventional paper return that includes IRS Form 4852 if all efforts to obtain a W-2 from your employer have failed. Here's how to fill one out:

1. In your TurboTax program, search for W-2 and then select the Jump to link in the search results to get to the W-2 entry screen.
2. Fill out your W-2 as best you can using the information from your last pay stub.
3. When finished, proceed through the interview. Eventually you'll get to the Do any of these uncommon situations apply to this W-2? screen.
   • Check the Substitute form box near the bottom.
   • Check any other box(es) that apply to your W-2 before selecting Continue.
4. Eventually you'll come to a screen which will ask if you want to complete Form 4852 for wages paid. Answer Yes and carefully follow the onscreen instructions.

Returns including Form 4852 can't be e-filed per IRS regulations.

Related Information:

• What if it's February but I still don't have my W-2?

[CatinaT1]

See HelenC12's response above.