The IRS does not retain actual copies of Forms W-2 for prior years. However, if you need Forms W-2 for filing your prior year federal tax return, IRS may be able to provide information that was submitted by your employer to the Social Security Administration. Call 1-800-829-1040.

If you need information from prior year W-2's for Social Security retirement purposes, and want IRS to provide a copy of your federal tax return in order to get the W-2's attached, you can submit Form 4506 (PDF) with a fee. Refer to Tax Topic 156.

Generally, the IRS can only provide copies of tax returns for six prior tax years. If you need W-2 information for earlier years, or for any other reason, the Social Security Administration may be able to help. If you need prior year W-2 information for civil court cases, Proof of Residency, or for state tax purposes, SSA offers a search of the W-2 files for a $37 fee for each tax year. Your request should include your name as shown on your Social Security card, any different name that may have been on your W-2, your complete mailing address, day time phone number, and reason for the request. You can mail the request to: SSA, Division of Earnings Records Operations, PO Box 33003, Baltimore, MD 21290-3003. SSA's customer service phone number is 1-800-772-1213.

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