How to Print Your W-2 for 2021: A Comprehensive Guide

Printing your W-2 for the year 2021 can be straightforward but might vary based on your relationship with the document. Whether you are an employer or an employee, this guide will help you through the process. If you're an employer, you need to use the IRS pink/salmon form, which is a scannable form. You can order them from the IRS or purchase them directly. For employees, if the W-2 was sent to you as a downloadable file, here is a step-by-step process to print it.

For Employers

If you are an employer, printing the W-2 for your employees requires the use of the IRS pink/salmon form. These forms are scannable and useful for submitting tax information electronically. To obtain these forms:

Order from the IRS: You can order these forms from the IRS website. However, it's important to note that these forms downloaded from the IRS will not scan properly in the IRS's system.Buy Directly: You may also purchase pre-printed W-2 forms from office supply stores or online retailers.

For Employees

As an employee, if you received your W-2 as a downloadable file, the process to print it is as follows:

Open the File: Ensure your device supports printing. This could be a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Connect your device to a printer using a cable or Wi-Fi.Access the Print Option: Open the downloadable document. Most W-2s are sent as PDF files. Look for the printer icon in the top right corner of the document.Select Your Printer: When the print settings page appears, you can choose the printer you want to use by right-clicking or tapping the destination field in the advanced options.Print: Once you have selected the correct printer, the print button should appear at the bottom of the settings panel. Right-click or tap the print button to initiate the printing process.

Alternative Methods to Obtain Your W-2

If for some reason you are unable to print your W-2, you can always request a copy from your employer or the IRS. Here are two options:

Request from Your Employer: Many employers will be willing to provide you with a paper copy of your W-2. Ensure you use this method as a last resort and confirm the details with your employer first.Request from the IRS: You can request an original copy of your W-2 by contacting the IRS via phone or filling out the F-4506-T form. Alternatively, you can visit a local Taxpayer Assistance Center by appointment.

By following these steps, you can successfully print your W-2 or acquire a copy if needed. Remember, it's important to stay organized and keep your W-2 as a key document for tax purposes.