Can I file taxes if I lost my W-2 in 2025?

Yes, you can still file your taxes even if you lost your W-2. You have several options to get the information you need.

Option 1 - Contact your employer: Your employer is required to provide a W-2 by January 31. Request a duplicate copy. Most payroll systems can reissue W-2s quickly, and many employers offer electronic access through payroll portals like ADP or Gusto.

Option 2 - Get a Wage and Income Transcript: Use IRS Form 4506-T or the IRS online tool at IRS.gov/individuals/get-transcript to request a Wage and Income Transcript. This shows the data from all W-2s and 1099s filed with the IRS. Note that this data may not be available until late February or March of the filing year.

Option 3 - File with Form 4852: If you cannot get a W-2 or transcript by the filing deadline, use Form 4852 (Substitute for Form W-2). You will estimate your wages and withholding using your final pay stub from the year. The IRS may follow up if your estimates do not match what your employer reported.

Important timing note: If you need to wait for a transcript, file Form 4868 for an automatic 6-month extension to avoid late-filing penalties. Do not skip filing just because you are missing a W-2. An extension gives you until October 15 to file your return.