Contact your former employer’s payroll or HR department
Log in to your employer’s payroll portal if you still have access
Check your email for electronic W-2 delivery from the employer or payroll provider
Contact the payroll provider used by your former employer
Request a wage and income transcript from the IRS
Create or log in to your IRS online account to view tax records
File Form 4506-T with the IRS to request a transcript by mail
Contact your state tax agency if you need state wage records
Check with a tax preparer if they filed your return and may have a copy
Use the Social Security Administration only if you need earnings records, not a W-2 copy
Keep your personal records organized for future W-2 access