To file taxes without a W-2, follow these steps:

• Use your final pay stubs to estimate your total wages and tax withholdings for the year if you did not receive a W-2 from your employer

• Complete IRS Form 4852 , which serves as a substitute for the W-2. You fill out this form using your wage and withholding estimates from your pay stubs

• Attach Form 4852 to your tax return and file both by mail, as Form 4852 cannot be e-filed. Mailing your return with this form may delay processing and any refund

• Try to obtain your W-2 first by contacting your employer. If unsuccessful, you can also request a Wage and Income Transcript from the IRS, which shows reported earnings but may only be available mid-year

• If you expect your W-2 soon but not by the filing deadline , consider filing Form 4868 to request an extension to file your return. Note this extension is for filing time only; any taxes owed are still due by the original deadline

• If you are self-employed or an independent contractor , you may not receive a W-2 but instead a 1099 form. If you do not receive a 1099, estimate income from records and report it as business income on your tax return

In summary, filing without a W-2 is possible by estimating income and withholding using pay stubs, submitting Form 4852 with your tax return, and mailing it to the IRS. Always attempt to obtain your W-2 or wage transcript first to ensure accuracy and avoid delays