What happens if you forget to mail your W-2 forms to the IRS?

Forgetting to send tax documents with a tax return is a common occurrence. You can rest assured that no adverse action will be taken against you for forgetting to attach a W-2 form or other forms as long as you submit the forgotten tax documents when the IRS requests them. Generally, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers most tax returns filed as valid and may or may not require taxpayers to submit additional tax documents.

If you file your tax return electronically, you do not need to send your W-2 form to the IRS, but you do need to provide a copy to the IRS e-file provider before sending it electronically.

When will I Receive a Notice from the IRS?

You can expect to receive a notice from the IRS requesting any missing or additional or missing tax documents a few weeks after sending in your return. This notice will contain a barcode and specific instructions on how to send in the missing documents you forgot to attach with the original tax return. The IRS understands that taxpayers, especially those who prepare their own tax returns without professional assistance, frequently forget to attach tax documents. Because of this, the IRS has a procedure that it follows and you can rest assured that they will contact you to obtain the necessary tax documents.

Case Studies: Forgetting to Mail W-2 Forms to the IRS

Case Study 1: Notice From the IRS

In this case, a taxpayer forgot to attach their W-2 form to their tax return. After submitting the return, they received a notice from the IRS requesting the missing tax document. The notice provided specific instructions on how to send in the missing W-2 form. The taxpayer promptly complied with the request and submitted the required document. The IRS processed the tax return without any adverse action taken against the taxpayer.

Case Study 2: Electronic Filing Requirements

Consider a scenario where an individual filed their tax return electronically but failed to provide a copy of their W-2 form to the IRS e-file provider. In this case, the IRS may send a notice requesting the missing tax document.

The taxpayer can then provide the necessary information to the e-file provider, ensuring that the missing document is included in the electronic submission. Compliance with the IRS’s request allows for the processing of the tax return without penalties or adverse consequences.

Case Study 3: Seeking Professional Assistance

Imagine a situation where a taxpayer, preparing their tax return for the first time, forgot to attach important tax documents. They realized their mistake after filing the return. In such cases, seeking help from the IRS, a tax accountant, or a tax attorney is advisable. The taxpayer can contact the IRS directly or consult with a tax professional who can provide guidance on the necessary steps to rectify the situation.

Following the instructions provided by the IRS helps ensure compliance and prevents any potential penalties or adverse actions.

Getting Help

If you are preparing your tax return for the first time and you are unsure about what documents to submit to the IRS, it’s best to contact the IRS, a tax accountant, or even a tax attorney for help. Call 1-800-829-1040 to speak to a live IRS representative Monday-Friday from 7 a.m.-10 p.m.