Get It Back Blog
Can I still file taxes without my W-2 or 1099?
January 17, 2023
Yes, you can still file taxes without a W-2 or 1099.
Usually, if you work and want to file a tax return, you need Form W-2 or Form 1099, provided by your employer. If you did not receive these forms or misplaced them, you can ask your employer for a copy of these documents.
If you cannot get a copy of your W-2 or 1099, you can still file taxes by filling out Form 4852, “Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement.” This form requests information about your wages and taxes that were withheld.
When filling out your Form 4852 you may find it useful to have:
- A pay stub, especially the last one you got for the year you are filing taxes for. This can be helpful because it includes all the necessary information to complete Form 4852, including the year-to-date amounts (which is the total amount of money you made in that year).
OR
- A prior year W-2 if your current W-2 is not available. If you worked for the same employer and can confirm that your pay and deductions remained the same, you may be able to use it to fill out some parts of Form 4852.
Check to see if your local VITA site can assist with filing out Form 4852.
Categories: VITA and Tax Filing
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As an expert in tax-related matters, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, having extensively studied and kept abreast of tax laws and regulations up until my last training data in January 2022. My understanding spans a range of topics, including tax filing requirements, form completion, and navigating various scenarios taxpayers may encounter.
The article you've provided, titled "Can I still file taxes without my W-2 or 1099?" touches upon a crucial aspect of tax preparation, addressing a common concern for individuals who may not have received or have misplaced their essential tax documents.
Firstly, the article correctly asserts that individuals can still file taxes even without the traditional W-2 or 1099 forms. It mentions the alternative form, Form 4852, titled "Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement." This demonstrates an accurate understanding of the available options for taxpayers facing document challenges.
The article advises individuals to request copies of their W-2 or 1099 from their employers if they haven't received them or have misplaced them. This aligns with the standard procedure and emphasizes the importance of obtaining the necessary documentation for accurate tax reporting.
Moreover, the article provides practical insights into the information required when filling out Form 4852. It suggests using a pay stub, especially the last one for the relevant tax year, as it includes year-to-date amounts. This demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the document requirements and how individuals can leverage alternative sources to compile the necessary information for tax filing.
Additionally, the article mentions the option of using a prior year W-2 if the current one is unavailable. This advice is grounded in the recognition that employment details, such as pay and deductions, may remain consistent from year to year, allowing for accurate reporting even with a previous year's document.
Furthermore, the article highlights the potential assistance available through local VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) sites for filing out Form 4852. This showcases an awareness of community resources and support services that can aid individuals in navigating the tax-filing process.
In summary, the article effectively addresses the question of filing taxes without W-2 or 1099 forms, offering accurate information and practical solutions. It reflects a solid understanding of tax regulations and demonstrates the author's expertise in guiding taxpayers through challenging scenarios related to tax document retrieval and filing.
