When will I get my W-2?

Last updated: August 19, 2026

Applies to: US W-2 employees. Independent contractors receive a 1099-NEC instead (see When will I get my 1099-NEC?); Canadian employees receive a T4 (see When will I get my T4 (and Relevé 1 in Quebec)?).

Your W-2 shows your total wages and the taxes withheld for the year. This article explains when to expect it, how to get it electronically, and where to download it.

When will my W-2 be available?

The IRS requires W-2s to be issued no later than January 31 of the year following the tax year. For example, your W-2 for the 2025 tax year must be issued by January 31, 2026. Official reference: Form W-2 (IRS)

Forms are typically available in your portal before that deadline, and you'll receive an email notification when yours is ready. If you were enrolled in medical coverage, you may also receive a 1095-C for the same year.

Note: If your form hasn't appeared yet, it may still be in processing — check back closer to January 31 before contacting support.

How will I receive it?

Delivery method

How it works

Electronic (recommended)

Your W-2 is posted to your Ascen portal as soon as it's ready, downloadable anytime.

Mail

A paper copy is mailed to the address on file. Delivery times vary.

If you've opted in to electronic delivery, you won't receive a paper copy. Electronic delivery is faster and works even if your address has changed.

To opt in: log in at app.ascen.com → your consent/document delivery settings → select electronic delivery and confirm. Changes after forms have been issued may not affect the current year's document.

Where to download it

  1. Log in at app.ascen.com.

  2. Go to Documents (app.ascen.com/contractor_documents).

  3. Find your W-2 under the tax year and click Download.

It stays available in the portal, so you can re-download it anytime.

Frequently asked questions

It's after January 31 and I still don't see my W-2.
Check you're looking at the correct tax year in Documents. If it's genuinely missing, contact Ascen at support@ascen.com. If you expected a paper copy and moved, update your address and ask support to reissue.

I worked in multiple states — do I get separate forms?
Your W-2 may show wages and withholdings for multiple states on the same form rather than as separate documents. See Working or living in more than one state — how state taxes work.

My W-2 has wrong information (name, address, amount).
Contact Ascen at support@ascen.com with the correction — a W-2C (corrected W-2) is issued once verified. Ascen is your employer of record and issues your W-2, so corrections come to us rather than to your staffing partner.

  • Where to find your tax documents for the year (all worker types)

  • Are stipends included on the W-2?

  • Understanding the taxes withheld from your paycheck

  • How do I fill out my US tax forms (W-4)?