When Does Walmart Release W-2s? Your Definitive Guide

Walmart, like all employers in the United States, is legally obligated to provide its employees with a W-2 form by January 31st of each year. This crucial document summarizes your earnings and the taxes withheld from your paycheck during the previous calendar year. This date applies regardless of whether you are a current or former employee of Walmart. The deadline is set by the IRS, and Walmart typically adheres strictly to it. However, the actual date you receive your W-2 can vary based on factors like delivery method and processing times.

Understanding the Walmart W-2 Distribution Process

The process involves Walmart compiling your annual earnings data, calculating tax withholdings, and then generating and distributing the W-2 forms. This meticulous process ensures accuracy and compliance. They offer multiple delivery methods for your W-2, adding a layer of convenience for employees.

Digital Delivery via MyTaxForm

Walmart strongly encourages employees to opt for electronic delivery of their W-2s through MyTaxForm. This method is not only the fastest but also the most secure and environmentally friendly. If you’ve opted for electronic delivery, you can typically expect to access your W-2 significantly before January 31st, often as early as mid-January. You’ll receive an email notification when your W-2 is available for download.

Paper Delivery via USPS

If you haven’t chosen electronic delivery, Walmart will send your W-2 via regular mail through the United States Postal Service (USPS). This method is subject to postal service delivery times, which can vary depending on your location. While Walmart aims to mail these forms well before the January 31st deadline, allow for extra time for delivery. It is possible to see your W-2 arriving in early February in this scenario.

What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your W-2

If you haven’t received your W-2 by mid-February, it’s crucial to take action. Don’t panic, but don’t delay either. Here’s what to do:

1. Verify Your Address: First, double-check that Walmart has your correct mailing address or email address (if you elected for electronic delivery). You can update this information through the WalmartOne website or by contacting your former store or department.
2. Contact Walmart Payroll: If your address is correct, contact Walmart’s payroll department directly. You can usually find contact information on the WalmartOne portal or by searching online for “Walmart Payroll Contact.” Explain that you haven’t received your W-2 and request a duplicate.
3. Request a Transcript from the IRS: As a last resort, if you’re still unable to obtain your W-2 from Walmart, you can request a wage and income transcript from the IRS. This transcript provides similar information to a W-2 and can be used to file your taxes. You can request a transcript online through the IRS website or by mail.

Walmart W-2 FAQs: Your Questions Answered

To further clarify the process and address potential concerns, here are some frequently asked questions about Walmart W-2s:

1. How do I access my W-2 online if I selected electronic delivery?

You can access your W-2 online through the MyTaxForm portal. The exact website address may vary slightly, so it’s best to search for “Walmart MyTaxForm” on Google or visit the WalmartOne website for a direct link. You’ll typically need your Social Security number (SSN) and date of birth to verify your identity and access your W-2.

2. What if I forgot my MyTaxForm login credentials?

If you’ve forgotten your MyTaxForm login credentials, there should be a “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” link on the login page. Follow the instructions provided to reset your credentials. You may need to answer security questions or provide your email address to verify your identity.

3. Can I change my W-2 delivery method (from mail to electronic or vice versa)?

Yes, you can typically change your W-2 delivery method. You can do so through the WalmartOne website during the enrollment period. The enrollment period is typically around late fall or early winter, prior to the W-2 release for the coming tax season. Look for the W-2 Enrollment section.

4. What if I moved and Walmart doesn’t have my current address?

It’s crucial to update your address with Walmart as soon as you move. You can usually do this through the WalmartOne website or by contacting your former store or department’s HR department. This ensures that your W-2 is mailed to the correct address if you haven’t opted for electronic delivery.

5. What information is included on my Walmart W-2?

Your Walmart W-2 includes your:

• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Name
• Address
• Total earnings for the year
• Federal income tax withheld
• Social Security tax withheld
• Medicare tax withheld
• State income tax withheld (if applicable)
• Local income tax withheld (if applicable)
• Various codes representing different types of income and deductions

6. What should I do if there’s an error on my W-2?

If you find an error on your W-2, such as an incorrect Social Security number or inaccurate earnings information, contact Walmart’s payroll department immediately. They will need to correct the error and issue a corrected W-2 (Form W-2c). It’s crucial to rectify any errors before filing your taxes to avoid potential issues with the IRS.

7. I’m a former Walmart employee. How do I get my W-2?

Even if you’re no longer employed by Walmart, they are still required to send you a W-2. The process is the same: if you had elected for electronic delivery in the past, you can access it through MyTaxForm. If you had paper delivery, it will be mailed to the last address on file. If you haven’t received it by mid-February, contact Walmart’s payroll department or request a wage and income transcript from the IRS.

8. Is the W-2 the only tax form I need from Walmart?

For most employees, the W-2 is the primary tax form. However, if you received certain benefits, such as health savings account (HSA) contributions or stock options, you may receive additional tax forms, such as Form 1099-SA (for HSAs) or Form 3922 (for stock options).

9. How long should I keep my W-2?

The IRS recommends keeping your W-2 for at least three years from the date you filed your tax return, or two years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later. This is because the IRS generally has three years to audit your tax return. It’s a good practice to keep your W-2s for even longer, especially if you anticipate needing them for other purposes, such as applying for a loan or proving your income.

10. Can I file my taxes without a W-2?

While it’s highly recommended to file your taxes with a W-2, it is possible to do so without one in certain circumstances. You can use Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, to report your income and withholdings if you haven’t received your W-2 by the tax filing deadline and have made reasonable efforts to obtain it from your employer. However, you’ll need to estimate your income and withholdings based on your pay stubs or other records. It’s always best to obtain your W-2 if possible to ensure accuracy and avoid potential penalties.

11. Does Walmart offer any tax preparation assistance to employees?

Walmart sometimes offers tax preparation resources or discounts to employees through partnerships with tax preparation services. Check the WalmartOne website or contact your store or department’s HR department to see if any such resources are available.

12. What if I need a copy of a W-2 from a previous year?

If you need a copy of a W-2 from a previous year, you can try accessing it through MyTaxForm if you had elected for electronic delivery. Otherwise, you can contact Walmart’s payroll department to request a copy. There may be a fee for requesting copies of W-2s from previous years. Alternatively, you can request a wage and income transcript from the IRS for previous tax years.