What IRS Form W-2 (2015) Is For
IRS Form W-2 is an official document that employers file with the Social Security Administration to report wages, income tax withheld, and other earnings. Each employee receives a copy that details total income paid, taxes withheld, and benefits reported. The information helps the Social Security Administration calculate retirement, disability, and survivor benefits while ensuring accurate income reporting for tax purposes.
Employers must file this form for every eligible worker, including part-time and seasonal employees. The document also helps individuals qualify for Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income. Accurate reporting supports government programs and ensures workers receive full credit for paid employment. Each filed form strengthens the national record of earned wages and contributions.
Additional references related to wage reporting and similar employer documents can be reviewed through Payroll & Employment Tax Forms, which provide organized guidance for related filing requirements.
When You’d Use IRS Form W-2 (2015)
Employers issue Form W-2 each year to report an employee’s income and tax withholdings for the previous year. The established due date to furnish copies to employees is January 31, unless it falls on a weekend or legal holiday, in which case the next business day applies. Employers may issue the form within thirty days after the final paycheck if employment ends early.
Filers must follow SSA instructions carefully and ensure that every portion is accurate. Employers should verify names, addresses, and Social Security numbers against SSA or WEP records. Accuracy helps maintain secure reporting and prevents delays in processing.
If a Form W-2 is not received by mid-February, the employee or authorized representative may contact the Social Security Administration for assistance. Employers may request an extension using Form 8809, typically in April, July, or October, depending on filing requirements. Every filer should confirm that all information remains consistent across official records.
Key Rules or Details for 2015
Employers were required to withhold income tax, Social Security, and Medicare contributions from employee wages. The Social Security rate remained 6.2 percent on earnings up to $118,500, and Medicare stayed at 1.45 percent for all income. Employees who earned more than $200,000 paid an additional 0.9 percent in Medicare tax.
Large employers that filed 250 or more forms had to use the Social Security Administration’s electronic filing system. Smaller businesses could continue using paper forms, provided that all entries were accurate and legible. Health coverage values were reported in Box 12 using code DD.
Employers needed to confirm Social Security numbers, state information, and correct business addresses before submission. These requirements helped ensure each employee’s reported income contributed accurately to retirement and disability benefit programs managed by the federal government.
Employers who need structured reference material for federal form requirements may consult the IRS Form Help Center, which offers detailed guidance for completing official documents.
Step-by-Step (High Level)
For Employees
- Employees receive Form W-2 from their employer by January 31.
- Each employee must review the form to confirm the accuracy of total income, taxes withheld, and the Social Security number.
- Employees use the form to file federal and state tax returns and retain it for at least three years for verification purposes.
For Employers
- Employers collect employee data and verify names, addresses, and Social Security numbers.
- Employers prepare Forms W-2 and W-3 and submit them to the Social Security Administration via Business Services Online or approved paper filing.
- Employers distribute copies to employees by the furnishing deadline.
For Recordkeeping
- Both parties store copies in a secure, access-controlled location.
- Both parties retain records to support benefit claims, verify wages, and document payments.
- Both parties maintain organized files consistent with statutory retention policies.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Careful verification of Form W-2 information prevents avoidable filing issues. The table below outlines common mistakes made during preparation and submission, along with clear solutions to avoid them.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Entered incorrect Social Security numbers
- Payroll officers should verify every employee’s Social Security number by checking the employee’s actual Social Security card before transmitting identification data to the IRS or SSA.
2. Used outdated addresses
- Employers should update employee address records at least once per year to ensure mailed forms reach the correct destination without delays or returns.
3. Submitted damaged paper forms
- Staff must handle all paper forms carefully.
- Use secure envelopes or opt for approved electronic filing methods to avoid damage that could invalidate or delay processing.
4. Reported inaccurate income amounts
- The payroll team should reconcile payroll records with all wage and tax data before completing each Form W-2.
- Accurate reconciliation helps prevent IRS corrections or notices.
5. Printed unofficial or altered forms
- Employers must use official red-ink W-2 forms or IRS-approved electronic filing formats.
- Unofficial or modified forms may be rejected.
Preventing these mistakes supports compliance, accurate documentation, and timely processing by the Social Security Administration.
What Happens After You File
After the forms are filed, the Social Security Administration processes the information and forwards wage data to the Internal Revenue Service and state agencies. The agencies compare employer reports with employee tax returns to confirm income accuracy. Each verified record supports a person’s eligibility for future Social Security benefits, including old age, disability, and survivors’ programs.
Employers who fail to file on time, submit inaccurate information, or provide incomplete forms may face penalties. The penalty amount depends on how late the filing occurs, ranging from moderate fines to higher amounts for intentional disregard. Businesses may request an extension when exceptional circumstances delay timely submission.
Keeping records organized and current helps maintain compliance with government requirements and ensures that workers’ earnings remain correctly credited in the national benefits system. Federal documents and related wage reporting materials are available through Federal Fillable Tax Forms.
FAQs
When is the due date for Form W-2 (2015)?
Employers were required to send employee copies and file with the Social Security Administration by January 31, 2016. If the date fell on a Sunday or legal holiday, the deadline moved to the next business day.
How can employees request a missing W-2?
Employees should contact their employer first. If the form remains unavailable, employees may request a wage transcript from the IRS or obtain earnings information from the Social Security Administration website.
What is the difference between a W-2 and a Form 1099?
Employees receive a W-2 that reports wages and taxes withheld. Independent contractors receive a Form 1099 that reports non-employee compensation not subject to withholding.
Can an employer file an extension?
Employers can grant extensions by filing Form 8809 before the original due date. The form allows a 30-day extension for filing with the Social Security Administration.
Which programs use W-2 information?
The data support Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and federal retirement programs. Accurate reports help maintain benefit eligibility for individuals and protect their contribution history.
