Does California require W-2 filing?
Jessica Young
Published Jan 13, 2026
The state of California does not require you to file Form W2. Even though the State of California does not require W2 Form, the IRS/SSA still requires you to file Form W2 to report wages and the taxes withheld for each of your employees for the year.
When must Forms W-2 and w3 be filed?
January 31
The due date is January 31. For more information on electronic filing, refer to the General Instructions for Forms W-2 and W-3 and to Topic No.
How can I get my W-2 form online?
To order official IRS information returns such as Forms W-2 and W-3, which include a scannable Copy A for filing, go to IRS’ Online Ordering for Information Returns and Employer Returns page, or visit and click on Employer and Information returns.
Where to get IRS Form W-2 in California?
IRS Form W-2 reporting requirements or instructions: Visit the IRS or contact them at 1-800-829-3676 for physical copies of forms. For help with state information on Form W-2, refer to the California Employer’s Guide (DE 44) (PDF) or contact us at 1-888-745-3886.
Do you have to file a W-2 with the state?
State Filings for Form W-2. Your W-2 year-end reporting has an important component: filing with the state. Most states have their own reconciliation forms similar to the W-3 form for federal filing. These states also mandate the reconciliation form along with the state filing.
Do you need to send two copies of W2’s?
If you are mailing in a state tax return, then you only need to include in the mail one Copy 2 for each W-2 that you received. Sometimes, the W-2 forms printed and sent to employees may have one form serve two purposes.
Do you have to file reconciliation form for W-2?
Your W-2 year-end reporting has an important component: filing with the state. Most states have their own reconciliation forms similar to the W-3 form for federal filing. These states also mandate the reconciliation form along with the state filing.