Check your personal records, tax folders, or email for saved W-2 copies
Log in to your employer’s payroll portal or HR system to download prior W-2s
Contact your former employer’s payroll or HR department and request copies
Ask the IRS for a Wage and Income Transcript using Form 4506-T or by creating an IRS online account
Contact the Social Security Administration if you need earnings information for older records
Reach out to your state tax agency if you need a state copy of wage records
Use a tax preparer or tax software account if they stored your prior-year tax documents
Submit a written request to the employer if phone or online requests are unavailable
Be ready to provide your full name, Social Security number, dates of employment, and tax year requested
Keep in mind employers are generally required to keep W-2 records for several years, but availability may vary