I started working on December 22, 2023, but my first paycheck was January 4, 2024. Do I have to pay taxes for 2023 or does that fall under 2024? Also, I didn't get a W-2.

[DJSM544474]

I didn't get a W-2 so I figured those last days of December would fall under the 2024 tax year, since the paycheck was on January 4, 2024, but now I've heard conflicting info and am not sure.

[jl-temp2]

Income is taxable in the year you receive it, not when you earn it. Great question though - I remember wondering the same thing. Good luck!

[Mike9241]

in taxes there are often conflicting views and with some no definitive answer. However, in your situation, it's 2024 income. that's why you didn't get a w-2 for 2023. 

[Zachry123]

I am in this same situation so will I receive a W2 for 2024?

[SteamTrain]

@Zachry123 

You could ask your Payroll dept, or HR people.

Most times, in that situation  (started in late Dec, but first wage payment is actually issued in January, it ends up in the next year's W-2.

Depends on how their payroll works.   For instance, if they mailed a check in Dec 2024, but you received it in the mail in Jan 2025....that that would normally mean a 2024 W-2.

So we can't know here how their payroll accounting works on late-year wages, for whoever is your employer. So you have to ask.....or just not file until late February, so you know a W-2 wasn't issued (as long as you haven't changed addresses). 

Also, be careful, some places sign up for only Online access to W-2 forms from some paycheck/W-2 provider.  So you might have to log in to some website to check for, and download,  a W-2 for 2024.  Again, your employer would know if they are mailing out W-2 forms, or Online access only.