Ordering Form W-2

• As an employer, you might need a dozen copies of Form W-2 each year or more. The easiest way to order in bulk is online through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website (see Resources). The online ordering screen allows you to order all information returns and employer products. Strict quantity limits of 1,000 for forms and 25 each for instructions and publications are enforced. Payment by credit card is available, and the documents may be shipped in separate packages and arrive at different times. You can also call 1-800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676) to order forms, including the W-2.
  
  

Individual Copies

• If you're a much smaller organization and need only one or a few copies of tax documents, you can usually find them for free at post offices and public libraries. Some, however, will only have documents for tax returns and not information returns like W-2. If there is an IRS collection or processing center in your area, you can also pick up forms directly in person. The forms are also available online for reference, and can be used for your records or to submit state and local governments and employees, but cannot be printed and submitted to the IRS. The forms the IRS provides use special paper, special inks, and precise specifications in order to be machine readable.
  
  

Individuals

• If you are a taxpayer and would like a copy of your W-2 from a previous year, you can request this information from the IRS with Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return. The IRS does not actually maintain a copy of your past W-2, but will have the information on file if you attached your W-2 to your tax return. There is a fee of $57 per tax year requested for this service.