Contact your former employer’s payroll or HR department
Request a copy of your W-2 for the tax year you need
Verify your mailing address on file
Ask if they can email, mail, or provide an online payroll portal copy
Check any employee self-service portal you used while employed
Look for tax documents in your online payroll account
Contact the payroll provider if your employer uses a third-party service
Review your email for W-2 delivery notices or portal access instructions
Wait until after January 31 if the W-2 has not yet been issued
If you do not receive it, contact the IRS for help at 1-800-829-1040
File Form 4852 if you need to file your taxes without the W-2
Keep records of all requests and responses from your former employer