Form W-2 and Form W-3

[AccTaxMan]

If I remember correctly, Form W-2 requires the red ink page. But Form W-3 does not and can be printed entirely in black ink. Am I correct?

[S T]

For several years now I have been printing all "black ink" no red copies for W-2 forms or W-3 - however I transmit all through Quickbooks electronically and do not "paper transmit" I believe there is an alternative direct through SSA, but you have to be registered and have a sign in.

From the SSA website

Social Security accepts laser printed Forms W-2/W-3 as well as the standard red drop-out ink forms. Both the laser forms and the red drop-out ink forms must comply with Internal Revenue Service's Publication 1141 and require pre-approval from Social Security.

My understanding if not submitting electronically or through SSA - they will accept W-2 forms and W-3 forms on blank paper black ink. - No more red forms.

Seems to be the reporting for 1099 forms is either forms in "Red" or efile this reporting has not migrated to the new electronic technology unless you pay for it or your software provider provides it.

Sandy

[Black Bart]

Form W-2 and Form W-3

If I remember correctly, Form W-2 requires the red ink page. But Form W-3 does not and can be printed entirely in black ink. Am I correct?

Not exactly; both W2 and W3 can be printed in black. I've been mailing them in like that for several years and they go through just fine. Much, much easier laser-printing on blank stock than lining up names and figures on pre-printed reds.

Only the 1096s and 1099s still have to be done on red ink forms.

P.S. Last year my office supplies vendor said he surely hope the government does not repeat this tragic mistake (allowing black W-2s/W3s) with the 1099s.

[AccTaxMan]

P.S. Last year my office supplies vendor said he surely hope the government does not repeat this tragic mistake (allowing black W-2s/W3s) with the 1099s.

What is the tragic mistake that he's talking about?

[Burke]

The document-provider's loss of income on sales. [Smile] SSA processes W-2's which has the equipment to handle B/W. Apparently, the IRS still does not. They process the 1099's.

[JohnH]

What is the tragic mistake that he's talking about?

I think he's talking about the same type of tragic mistake it would be if the tax code were simplified to the point that everyone could self-prepare.