I received a 2023 W2 for $174 from an employer I have not worked for since 2019. What could be the reason? Do I need to report it on my 2023 return?

[Vanessa A]

You will need to reach out to that employer and get them to correct this.  If you have not worked for them since 2019, and they did not pay you for anything since 2019, then you should not have a W-2 from them. 

So, no, you should not report it on your return, however, if you do not get it corrected, and you file without it, the IRS may send you a letter telling you they adjusted your return for that amount that you forgot to include.  So it is definitely best for you to get it corrected. 

[xmasbaby0]

We cannot guess why you received a W-2 from that old employer.  Call them and ask the former employer.   But....if they issued it to you, they also sent one to the IRS and the IRS will wonder if you do not include it on your tax return.  So before you file, sort it out with that old employer.