The short answer: You complete a W-4 so your employer can calculate how much federal income tax to withhold from your pay. Your employer gives you a W-2 after the year ends to report your wages and the taxes that were withheld.
What to do with Form W-4
Expect a W-4 when you start a job. It asks for information your employer uses to calculate federal income-tax withholding. You can submit a new W-4 later if your personal or financial situation changes and you need to adjust withholding.
- Read the current form instructions instead of copying an old answer.
- Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator if you are unsure.
- Submit the completed form to your employer—not with your annual tax return.
What to do with Form W-2
Expect a W-2 from each employer after the calendar year ends, generally by January 31. It reports wages and amounts withheld for federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare, and sometimes state or local taxes. You use it when filing your tax return.
- Check your name and Social Security number for errors.
- Keep it with your tax records.
- If it is missing or incorrect, contact the employer promptly and follow current IRS instructions.
Official sources
Educational information only, not individualized tax advice. Federal forms and rules change; use the current IRS form and instructions.
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