W-4 vs W-2: What’s the Difference? (Plain-English Guide)
W-4 vs W-2 — what is the difference? The W-4 is the form you fill out on day one to set your paycheck withholding. The W-2 is what your employer sends you every January showing your total wages and taxes withheld for the year. This plain-English guide explains both forms, how they connect throughout the tax year, and what to do if your W-2 is missing or has errors.