When do w2s have to be mailed

Show the cents portion or use zeroes for no cents. Don't make any erasures, cross-outs, or whiteouts. Copy A must be error free.

If you make an error, put an "X" in the "Void" box, use the next Form W-2, and start again. Don't write "corrected" on the next Form W Because Form W-2 is printed with two forms on a single page, send in the whole Copy A page the page printed with red ink to the SSA even if one form is blank or void.

Don't cut or fold the page. Don't staple Forms W-2 to each other or to Form W If a box doesn't apply, leave it blank. Page Last Reviewed or Updated: Nov Again, your final pay stub can help provide these figures. If you want to wait for your official W-2, you may need to request more time to file your tax return.

Filing Form will give you an automatic six-month extension to file your An extension only gives you more time to file your tax forms. It is not an extension to pay any tax you owe. You must estimate how much tax you owe and include that amount with Form Interest and penalties may apply if you pay less than what you actually owe, so take your estimate seriously. Regardless of which approach you take, file your return or extension request by the tax-filing deadline.

If your official earnings statement arrives after you've filed your taxes, you can amend your tax return to reflect the accurate amount. The best time to file your tax return. See our picks for the year's best tax software. Learn about the new Form and schedules. Check your calendar. Search your email. Call your company. Contact the IRS. File without a W Employers are legally required to keep W-2 forms on file for at least four years.

Employers are also legally required to complete an employment identification number EIN form. These tax IDs are required when reporting employee wages and tax withholdings. Crystal Vogt has been an editor and freelance writer since and has had her work mentioned on MediaBistro, Yahoo! Finance and MSN Money, among other outlets. She received her M. By Crystal Vogt Updated January 31, Warning Failure to send W-2 forms in a timely manner can result in significant fines for your business.