How can I get a copy of my wage and tax statements (Form W-2)?

 · En español · 

We can give you copies or printouts of your Forms W-2 for any year from 1978 to the present. You can get free copies if you need them for a Social Security-related reason. If you need them for an unrelated reason, the established fee for employer requests is $54.00 per copy for each W-2 requested, regardless of the number of years or copies requested for each of the years requested, or whether copies are available for the year(s) requested. Full cost includes searching, reviewing, duplicating, and forwarding to the requester. SSA requires the requester to pay all fees before records are furnished. Payment of fees will be made payable to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Certification is not required unless this information is used in court. SSA certifies W-2 copies for an additional fee of $30.00 per copy for each certified W-2 requested.

You can also get a transcript or copy of your Form W-2 from the Internal Revenue Service. However, state and local tax information isn't available if you e-filed your tax return.

Some examples of non-Social Security program purposes are:

  • Filing federal or state tax returns.
  • Providing income information for workers' compensation.
  • Establishing residency.
  • Establishing entitlement to private pension benefits.

If you do not give a reason, we assume you need the forms for non-program purposes.

When you write to us, be sure to include:

  • Your Social Security number (SSN).
  • The exact name as shown on your Social Security card.
  • Any different names shown on your W-2.
  • Your complete mailing address.
  • The year(s) for which you need copies.
  • Your daytime phone number.
  • The reason for your request.

Send your request with a check or money order payable to the Social Security Administration. Please include your SSN on the check or money order. You also can pay with a credit card by completing Form-714. Regular credit card rules apply.

Please send your request to:

Social Security Administration
Central Processing
Earnings Operations
Division of Earnings Corrections
P.O. Box 33003
Baltimore, MD 21290-3003