How do I file my Income Tax without a W-2 form?

Answer 1

If you are an employee:

Your employer is required to provide you with a W-2 by January 31.

If you are unable to get the W-2, the IRS will accept Form 4852 in place of a W-2. You can use the final pay stubs to complete Form 4852.

However, returns with this form will not be accepted by the IRS until the middle of February.

If you are not an employee:

You file using your own records of self-employment income, 1099s if given to you, bank records, etc.

Answer 2

If you make effort to locate the W-2, the IRS has a way around this, usually a form or affidavit. You can call the IRS with your tax questions below:

Telephone Assistance

Live Telephone Assistance
Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time). When calling, you may ask questions to help you prepare your tax return, or ask about a notice you have received.

Telephone Assistance for Individuals
Toll-Free, 1-800-829-1040.

Telephone Assistance for Businesses
Toll-Free, 1-800-829-4933.

Telephone Assistance for people with hearing impairments
Toll-Free 1-800-829-4059 (TDD). For further information, see Tax Topic 102.

Telephone Assistance for people who live outside the United States
Hours of availability vary by location. Please see our International Services page.

Face-to-Face Assistance
In certain areas, IRS also has local offices you may visit to receive assistance

Answer 3

If you know you have a tax liability, you can file and pay estimated taxes until you're able to get hold of the proper documentation. W-2 forms can be requested from your employer or through the Social Security Administration (for a fee). If the IRS has copies of your W-2's they may supply them to you also.

Answer 4

with your last paycheck stub of the year