W-2 Retention

FunHRBanker

I've tried to find the answer in every place I can think of (searching this site, the IRS site, etc.). Does anyone know how long you must maintain copies of W-2s? I would guess it's like 941s (4 years from date of filing), but want to make sure.

We have stuff from 1998!

joannie

According to my handy, dandy "Employers Guide To Recordkeeping Requirements" the information contained on W-2's should be kept as follows:

Under FLSA - 3 years after the rcord is made.
Under FICA - 4 years from the later of the tax due date or the payment date
Under FUTA - 4 years from the later of the tax due date or the payment date

and for Wage payments

Under the Equal Pay Act - 3 yeard from the date the record is made.

According to our company policy, we keep them for 7 years just to be on the safe side.

FunHRBanker

Thanks Joannie!