Tax Tip: If You Are Still Waiting For Your W-2, Call Your Employer

The Oregon Department of Revenue receives 4,000 to 5,000 paper tax returns each year without W-2s.

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - By law, your employer is required to provide you with a W-2 form by January 31st.

If you haven't received it, contact your employer.

"There may be many reasons why they are delayed," said Joan Linn, tax services manager. "For example, your employer may not have your correct address."

Linn advises taxpayers who haven't received a W-2 to call the employer responsible for issuing it.

"If that doesn't work, call the IRS for help," Linn said. "But only as a last resort."

The Oregon Department of Revenue receives 4,000 to 5,000 paper tax returns each year without W-2s.

While W-2s are not required with e-filed returns, Linn recommends that taxpayers hold on to them for three years in case the department needs to see the paper W-2, or in case you are audited later.

If you send in your paper tax return to the Revenue department without a W-2, it will delay the processing of your return.

"If you're waiting for a tax refund, submitting a return without W-2s could delay your refund by several months," Linn said.

If you have not received your W-2s by February 15th, and you have reported it to your employer, call the IRS, (800) 829-1040.