If a taxpayer receives a Form W-2 with an incorrect Social Security number, what must they do before submitting their tax return?

When a taxpayer receives a Form W-2 that contains an incorrect Social Security number, the correct course of action is to request a corrected Form W-2 from the employer. This is essential because the information on the W-2, including the Social Security number, is used by the IRS to match the taxpayer's income with their tax return. If the Social Security number is incorrect, it can lead to issues such as delays in processing the return, incorrect tax calculations, or even problems with the taxpayer's eligibility for certain benefits.

Obtaining a corrected W-2 ensures that all submitted information is accurate, which is crucial for compliance with tax laws and for the taxpayer’s financial future. Submitting a tax return with an incorrect SSN can create complications that might require additional follow-up with the IRS, and the taxpayer could face delays in receiving any potential refund. Therefore, coordinating with the employer to rectify the error before filing is the appropriate and necessary step to take.