Contact the former employer’s payroll or HR department
Request a copy of your W-2 for the specific tax year
Verify your mailing address on file is correct
Ask if the W-2 can be sent by mail, email, or through an employee portal
Check any former employee self-service portal for available tax documents
Contact the company’s payroll provider if the employer uses an outside service
Wait until after January 31, when employers are required to send W-2s
If the W-2 is not received, call the IRS at 800-829-1040
File Form 4852 as a substitute if you still cannot obtain the W-2
Keep records of all requests and communications with the employer