W-2 Tax Year

[michasiegel91]

Wages that are earned in December 2019 and paid in January 2020 will be taxed in which year?

[Critter · Accepted solution]

2020 ... it is the year on the check that sets the tax year not when you earn it. 

[TomD8]

On your 2019 return you'll be taxed on the wages shown on your 2019 W-2.  Ask your employer's payroll department if your year-end wages are going to be reported on your 2019, or your 2020 W-2.

By the way, your question illustrates why no one should prepare their tax return on the basis of their year-end check stubs.  Always wait for the W-2.