Tax season officially begins the moment your W-2 form lands in your inbox or mailbox. For many taxpayers, especially W-2 employees, this single document is the foundation of your entire tax return. But once you receive it, what should you actually do next?
If you want to avoid delays, errors, or missed refunds, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you move forward confidently and file your taxes smoothly.
- Review Your W-2 Carefully
Before doing anything else, take a few minutes to review your W-2 for accuracy. Even small mistakes can cause filing delays or IRS notices later.
Check the following details:
- Your full name and Social Security Number
- Employer’s name and EIN
- Total wages, tips, and compensation
- Federal, state, and local taxes withheld
If you notice any incorrect information, contact your employer immediately and request a corrected W-2 (Form W-2c).
- Understand What Your W-2 Shows
Your W-2 isn’t just a form—it’s a snapshot of your income and taxes paid during the year. Key boxes include:
- Box 1: Taxable wages
- Box 2: Federal income tax withheld
- Box 4 & 6: Social Security and Medicare taxes
- Box 12: Retirement contributions or other benefits
Understanding these numbers helps you know whether you may owe taxes or expect a refund.
- Gather Other Tax Documents
Your W-2 is important, but it may not be the only document you need. Depending on your situation, you might also require:
- 1099 forms (interest, freelance income, or investments)
- Student loan interest statements
- Mortgage interest statements
- Proof of deductions or credits
Having all documents ready before filing reduces errors and speeds up processing.
- Decide How You Want to File
Once your paperwork is ready, choose the best filing option:
- Self-filing using tax software
- Working with a professional tax preparer
If your tax situation involves multiple jobs, state filings, credits, or deductions, professional assistance can help you maximize your refund and stay compliant.
- File Early to Avoid Stress
Filing early offers several advantages:
- Faster refunds
- More time to fix errors if needed
- Reduced risk of tax identity fraud
- No last-minute pressure before the deadline
Early filing also gives you time to plan if you owe taxes.
- Track Your Refund or Payments
After filing, keep a copy of your return and track your refund status. If you owe taxes, ensure payments are made on time to avoid penalties or interest.
How RIWA Tax Advisors Can Help
At RIWA Tax Advisors, we specialize in helping individuals and businesses file accurate, stress-free tax returns. Whether you’re filing with a single W-2 or have multiple income sources, our experts ensure:
- Correct reporting of W-2 income
- Maximum eligible deductions and credits
- Timely and compliant filing
- Support with IRS notices or corrections
Our goal is to make tax filing simple, transparent, and worry-free.
Receiving your W-2 is the first big step of tax season—but what you do next matters just as much. Reviewing your form, gathering documents, and filing correctly can save time, money, and stress.
If you’re ready for a smooth tax filing experience, RIWA Tax Advisors is here to help every step of the way.
