Expert: Carole Dunton - 7/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello:

What is the difference between Social Security wages and W-2 wages, and where can I find W-2 wages?
Box 3 on my W-2 form indicates my Social Security wages, but I cannot locate my W-2 wages, if there is such a wage.

I thank you for your reply.

ANSWER: Hi,

Your W2 wages are in box 1 of your W2 form.  Often W2 and SS wages are the same but not always.  If you have deductions for a 401(k), for example, that is not included in your W2 wages but is included in SS wages.  On your tax return you use your W2 wages in box 1.

Regards,
Carole

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Carole:

I want to thank you for your reply and answer to my question.  I do have a follow-up question.  I no longer have my tax returns from 1985 - 1996.  Is it possible to contact the IRS and request to have them release to me my W-2 wages and Social Security wages from those years?

I thank you for your follow-up reply.

Answer
Hi,

Sorry to take so long but I was on vacation and just returned.

Yes you can request your W2's from the IRS.  You can also request a transcript of your tax returns.  They charge for a copy of your tax returns but transcripts are free.

Regards,
Carole