The service we received at our first visit was excellent! The thoroughness of the accountant was greatly appreciated. We receive regular follow-ups to ensure that things are going smoothly and to answer any questions that we have.
Everything You Need to Know About W-2s
We receive our W-2s every year at the same time, and most of us understand that these forms play an important role in the tax filing process. But how much do we really know about W-2s and taxes? First of all, employers are legally obligated to complete a W-2 form for each employee to whom they pay any salary, wage, or compensation. Employers must mail these forms out before January 31st, allowing taxpayers around 2 months to file before the April 15th deadline. Employers must also file W-2 forms (along with W-3 forms) with the Social Security Administration, and the SSA will then report relevant amounts to the IRS (Internal Revenue Service).
W-2s and Tax Returns
Essentially, your W-2s indicate how much tax was withheld over the course of the year, thus signifying how much you owe or how much you will receive back. In most cases, federal and state taxes are withheld, along with some other taxes (which will vary based on your specific occupation). When you prepare your individual tax return for the year, the withholding amount from your W-2 will be subtracted from the tax due. Because of this, you will only receive a refund if more tax was withheld by the IRS than was necessary. If you want and are expecting a refund, it is absolutely crucial that you fill your W-4s out correctly when you are first hired! We will gladly give you advice on how to do so, ensuring you receive your maximum refund at the end of the tax year.
As an employee, you should receive three separate copies of your W-2. One is for filing your taxes with the IRS, one is for the state tax return, and one is for your personal records. However, even if you do not receive a W-2, you are legally required to report all of your wages earned, including tips (namely if you are working within the service industry).
Accountax goes above and beyond to make sure I understand everything there is to know when it comes to my business accounting. Accurate, reliable, thorough, these are the words that come to mind when I think about working with Accountax.
Preventing Issues with the IRS
The IRS will receive a copy of your W-2s from your employers, and the suspicions may be raised if the amount reported on the W-2 does not match the amount reported on Form 1040 (the form you use when completing your individual tax return). Furthermore, the IRS will be made aware of any discrepancies between taxes due and and taxes paid. The W-2 is basically used as a way for the Internal Revenue Service to track each individual’s tax liability, holding them ultimately accountable. Over time, the form has become widely recognized as formal proof of income, and is used as such by the court of law, the Social Security Administration, and even applications for college-related financial aid.
We are readily available to assist you with all of your tax-related needs, and answer any questions you may have regarding your W-2s. For more information, or for assistance, please feel free to contact us today. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
Ready To Talk?
Need help with your taxes? Looking to get your bookkeeping and payroll optimized? Just want to say “Hi”? Fill out the form below and an accounting expert from Accountax will reach out to you.