What is the deadline for employers to provide employees with Form W-2?

Employers are required to provide employees with Form W-2 by January 31st of the following year. This deadline ensures that employees have timely access to their wage and tax information, which is necessary for accurately filing their income tax returns. By receiving the W-2 by January 31st, employees can prepare for tax filing season, which typically begins in early January.

Meeting this deadline is essential for employers to comply with IRS regulations and to avoid potential penalties for failing to furnish timely W-2 forms. The W-2 form includes important details such as wages earned, taxes withheld, and other relevant income details for the previous tax year, making it a crucial document for both employers and employees during tax season.