How to Use Form W-2 for Federal and State Income Tax Returns: A Complete Guide

How to Use Form W-2 for Federal and State Income Tax Returns: A Complete Guide Taxes. The mere mention of the word can make even the most confident among us break out in a sweat. But don’t worry—filing your federal and state income tax returns doesn’t have to be a horror movie. All you need is your trusty Form W-2 and a little guidance (and maybe a cup of coffee...or three). Let’s dive in! What Is Form W-2, and Why Is It So Important? Form W-2 is like the MVP of your tax documents. It’s the form your employer sends you every year, detailing how much you earned and how much was withheld for taxes. In other words, it’s your ticket to making sure Uncle Sam gets his due—and maybe even scoring a sweet refund. By law, your employer has to send you your W-2 by January 31. If it’s February and you’re still waiting, it’s time to politely (or not-so-politely) remind HR to get their act together.