I worked two days in 2024, should I be expecting a W-2 from my employer?

If you performed work in 2024, even if it was just for two days, you should receive a W-2 that reports those earnings. The key factor is when you performed the work, not when you got paid. Since your work was done in 2024, that income is reportable on your 2024 tax return. Most employers must send W-2s by January 31st, so you should wait until at least then before filing. Even if the amount is small, you're still legally required to report all income earned during the tax year. The employer is required to issue a W-2 if they withheld any taxes (regardless of how much you earned) or if you earned at least $600. I'd recommend contacting your employer's payroll department to confirm if they'll be sending a W-2 and when you might expect it.

I had a similar situation last year and using taxr.ai really helped clear things up for me. I was confused about some income that didn't come with proper documentation and wasn't sure what to do. I uploaded my paystub to https://taxr.ai and they analyzed it alongside the tax regulations to tell me exactly how to handle it on my return. In your case, I'd bet their system could tell you whether you need to wait for a W-2 or how to report those couple days of work if no W-2 is coming. It saved me a lot of headache trying to figure out these edge cases that most tax software doesn't explain well.

Just wanted to follow up - I tried taxr.ai after seeing this thread because I had a similar situation with a short-term job in December. I uploaded my final paystub and explained I hadn't received a W-2 yet. They explained exactly what to expect based on my specific situation and gave me options for what to do if the W-2 never arrives. Saved me from making a mistake on my return and potentially delaying my refund. Definitely worth checking out if you're stuck in tax document limbo!

If you're having trouble getting answers from your employer about that W-2, I'd recommend using Claimyr to get through to the IRS. I was in the same boat last year - waiting on a missing W-2 and couldn't get straight answers. I tried calling the IRS directly but kept getting the "call volume too high" message and could never get through. Then I found https://claimyr.com and used their service - they basically hold your place in line with the IRS and call you back when an agent is available. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c. I was skeptical at first but it saved me hours of frustration. The agent I spoke with explained exactly what to do about my missing W-2 and even initiated contact with my employer.

I have to apologize for calling Claimyr a scam. I was so frustrated with tax season that I was cynical about everything. After seeing your explanation, I decided to try it this morning when I needed to ask about a missing 1099. Got a callback in about 90 minutes, which is INSANE considering I spent 3 hours on hold last week and eventually had to hang up. The IRS agent I spoke with was able to confirm that I can file without the missing form from those two December workdays if the amount was under $600 and no tax was withheld. They also gave me options if I need to file an amendment later. Saved me potentially weeks of waiting!

I actually had this exact situation in 2023. Worked Dec 27-31 at a new job and didn't get paid until mid-January. They did send me a W-2, but it didn't show up until like February 10th, which was super annoying because I had to wait to file. If I were you, I'd definitely wait until at least February 10-15 to see if one comes. If not, then reach out to your HR department. Even for just two days, they should give you a W-2 if any taxes were withheld at all.

Another option - if you know roughly how much you earned those two days, you could always file now using your best estimate, then amend later if needed when the W-2 arrives. Not ideal but if you really need that refund ASAP it's technically an option.

Has anyone noticed that employers seem to be taking longer and longer to send W-2s each year? I swear they all wait until the absolute last minute on January 31st now, sometimes even later. Making us all wait to file is so frustrating.