when should w2 be sent out

Form W-2s must be sent out by January 31 each year for the prior tax year, and “sent” means furnished or postmarked by that date, not necessarily received by you.

Key W-2 deadline

• Employers are required to provide or mail your W-2 no later than January 31 following the end of the tax year.

• If January 31 falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day.

• The rule is the same whether the W-2 is mailed or provided electronically; it just has to be furnished by the deadline.

When you should expect it

• Many employers prepare and start mailing or posting W-2s in mid-to-late January, so most people receive them in the first days of February.

• Electronic W-2s (through an employee portal or payroll system) are often available a bit earlier, but still by January 31 at the latest.

If your W-2 is late

• If you have not received your W-2 by early to mid‑February, first contact your employer or former employer to confirm your address and ask for a copy.

• Guidance commonly suggests that if it is still missing by around February 15, you may need to escalate and follow IRS instructions for filing without a W‑2 or requesting IRS assistance.

Extra note for employers

• Employers must both furnish W‑2s to employees and file them with the Social Security Administration by the same January 31 deadline, and late or incorrect forms can lead to per‑form penalties.

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Wondering when should W2 be sent out? Employers must furnish or mail W‑2 forms to employees by January 31 each year, with most workers receiving them in late January or early February.

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