Check your personal files, tax folders, or email for the W-2
Log in to your employer’s payroll or HR portal
Contact your former employer’s payroll or HR department
Request a wage and income transcript from the IRS
Check with your state tax agency if you need a state copy
Use the Social Security Administration if you need earnings records
Ask your tax preparer or accountant for a copy
Review prior-year tax returns and attached documents
Search cloud storage, scanned documents, and backup drives
File IRS Form 4506-T to request transcripts if needed