Where can I obtain copies of my past W-2s?

Question

I've never filed my taxes before because my dad said he claimed me since I've been working (6 years now), but now I'm starting to think I should file, but thinking about finding every single one of my W-2s from the last 6 years is a headache!!

Anyone know where I can get all of them at one time?

Answer 1

Can I get copies of my prior year Forms W-2 from the IRS?

The quickest way to obtain a copy of a prior year Form W-2 (PDF) is through your employer. If that is not possible, you can order and pay for copies of your entire return (attachments include Form W-2 (PDF)) from IRS, or order Form W-2 (PDF) information at no charge from the IRS. The IRS can provide Form W-2 (PDF) information for up to 10 years. Information for the current year is generally not available until the year after it is filed with the IRS. For example, Form W-2 (PDF) information for 2005, filed in 2006, will not be available from IRS until 2007.

To receive a copy of your return or transcript, complete and mail Form 4506 (PDF), Request for Copy of Tax Return or Form 4506-T (PDF) Request for Transcript of Tax Return. You should allow 60 calendar days for a response.

But if you have not received a letter from the IRS you probably don't need to file.  I would personally contact IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or 1-800-829-0922 1-800-829-8374 to find out if you are liable to file.

Answer 2

If you haven't received mail from the IRS, that would suggest that either a) your dad did file, b) your income was below the filing requirement for a dependent, c) your withholding was enough to pay any tax due.  (Your W-4 may have been marked exempt and no taxes were withheld.)

You can use IRS form 4506-T (go to irs.gov) to request both W-2s and account transcripts for 2005-2007.  The W-2 will be enough to file for federal, but not state.   The account transcript will be enough to tell if you did file.  Forms are also available at irs.gov.

You cannot request refunds for 2002-2004.  You can get the W-2s to see what, if anything, you lost.