How to choose electronic or paper delivery for your W-2

Last updated: August 25, 2026

Applies to: Workers who receive a W-2 from Ascen. If you are an independent contractor you get a 1099 instead, and the same Consent Settings page controls electronic delivery for that form.

Summary: You choose whether to get your W-2 electronically or as a paper copy in the mail, and you can change your mind at any time from Consent Settings in your account. Consenting to electronic delivery means you download it from the portal instead of waiting for the post.

How to change how your W-2 is delivered

  1. Sign in at app.ascen.com.

  2. Click your name in the account menu, then choose Consent Settings.

  3. Find the electronic W-2 consent item and click Edit.

  4. To get your W-2 electronically: opt in, then type your signature and submit.
    To get a paper copy by mail: sign the form without opting in.

Your choice is recorded with your signature and the date, so it is worth taking a moment to pick the one you actually want.

If you already made the opposite choice

You can change it yourself at any time from Consent Settings — you do not have to wait until next January. If the step appears locked or already completed and you cannot change it, email support@ascen.com and we can reopen it for you.

Which one should I pick?

  • Electronic is faster. The form is available in the portal as soon as it is issued, and it cannot be lost in the post or go to an old address.

  • Paper is mailed to the home address on your profile. If you choose paper, make sure your address is current — see How to update your personal information.

Why you may not see the setting

Each consent option only appears when it applies to you. The electronic W-2 option shows up once you have a W-2 assignment or have been paid as an employee in the current calendar year. If you have only ever been paid as an independent contractor, you will see the 1099 option instead.

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