Contact your former employer’s payroll or HR department
Request a copy of your W-2 for the tax year you need
Use the company’s employee portal if former employees still have access
Check your email for any electronic W-2 delivery notices
Log in to any payroll service your employer used, such as ADP, Workday, or Paychex
Verify your mailing address was correct with the former employer
Ask whether the W-2 was mailed and request a reissue if needed
Wait until after January 31 if the W-2 has not yet been issued
Contact the IRS if you cannot get the W-2 from the employer
File Form 4852 as a substitute if the W-2 is still unavailable
Keep records of all requests and communications with the employer