Form W-2c, Corrected Wage and Tax Statement
Correct errors on a W-2 that was already issued to an employee and filed with the Social Security Administration.
Opens a fillable version in your browser. Free, no account, and free to download. This is a helper, not the official form.
About Form W-2c
Form W-2c is used by employers to correct errors on a Form W-2 that was already provided to an employee and filed. Common corrections include a wrong name or Social Security number, incorrect wage or withholding amounts, or a mistake in the tax year.
The form shows both the previously reported figures and the corrected figures so the change is clear. Employers give a copy to the affected employee and file copies with the Social Security Administration, often along with Form W-3c as a transmittal.
Correcting a W-2 helps ensure that wage and tax records match what was actually paid and withheld, which protects the employee's Social Security earnings record and helps their tax return reconcile correctly. Follow the instructions for which boxes to complete for each type of error.
Who needs to complete it
- Employers who reported an incorrect name or Social Security number on a W-2.
- Businesses that need to fix wage, tip, or withholding amounts already reported.
- Payroll departments correcting an error found after W-2 forms were filed.
- Employers who issued a W-2 for the wrong tax year or with a wrong EIN.
How to fill out Form W-2c
- 1Enter the tax year being corrected and the employer and employee identifying information.
- 2Fill in the employee's previously reported name and Social Security number.
- 3Enter the correct name and Social Security number if those are being changed.
- 4For each affected box, enter the previously reported amount and the correct amount.
- 5Leave boxes that do not change blank as directed by the instructions.
- 6Prepare Form W-3c as the transmittal if you are filing paper copies with the SSA.
- 7Follow the line-by-line instructions on the official form for filing method and copies.
- 8Provide a copy to the employee and file the required copies with the Social Security Administration.
Ask AI about this form
Get plain-language help understanding Form W-2c. General guidance only, not legal or tax advice.
Frequently asked questions
When do I use Form W-2c?
Use it to correct a Form W-2 that was already given to an employee and filed, for example to fix a wrong Social Security number, name, or wage and withholding amount.
Do I need Form W-3c too?
If you file paper corrected forms with the Social Security Administration, you generally send Form W-3c as the transmittal along with the W-2c copies.
Does the employee need a copy?
Yes. Give the corrected form to the affected employee so their records and tax return reflect the accurate amounts.
What if only the Social Security number was wrong?
You complete the boxes that identify the previously reported and correct name and number. Follow the instructions for which boxes apply to your specific correction.