It’s mid-January, and you realize it’s almost time to start getting on top of your tax filing. You’re anticipating a nice return this year, you’ve got a cold beverage, and you’re ready to file. There’s just one problem: Your employer hasn’t sent you your 2021 paperwork yet! So, exactly when will you get your W-2s?
Well, it’s not exact. But you can rely on one date in particular: January 31, 2022. That is the date all employers must send out W-2s to all employees. You may not receive them on or before that day, of course, but the law says they must at least be in the mail by then.
What’s the Delay?
There are a number of reasons you might not have your W-2 in hand yet. It might sound like a flake’s excuse, but most commonly it really is the case that it’s in the mail (and, as mentioned earlier, that’s almost surely the case by January 31). Your last registered mailing address with your employer will be the place your W-2 goes, so it’s a good practice to make sure your information is up to date. If your former address is the one on file with your employer and they’ve already sent your W-2 out, the postal service may forward it to you (which takes additional time, often days even if you’re in the same city). Alternately, you may need to request a duplicate W-2 sent to your updated address.
Tax reconciliation is also a common hang-up for many employers in getting out W-2s quickly. Always remember that there are people behind the process. Any imbalance on your 2021 pay and tax forms could lead to a slower generation of your W-2.
One thing we can assure you is not happening: Your W-2 is not sitting around in your employer’s outbox for days on end. Once these crucial forms are completed, employers know it’s in their best interests, as well as their employees’, to get them in the mail immediately. That is certainly the case at Allevity!
It’s January 31. Where Is My W-2?
If you do not have your W-2 within a few business days of the January 31 mailing cut-off, you have a couple of options besides simply waiting a little longer. For example, The Nest recommends calling the IRS directly at 800-829-1040. If chatting with the Fed doesn’t sound too fun, you might also check with your employer’s HR department or tax pro; many employers now use online services that have digital versions of your W-2 available for download.
The bottom line with W-2s is generally this: Be patient until at least January 31. They are on the way! If you have more questions about W-2s, we can help–just reach out.
