How can I get a tax refund without my w-2?

Why can't you get your W-2? Your employer MUST provide it.

why can't you get your w-2? Your employer must provide it.
I am trying to get it before they mail it.

I think it HAS to be mailed out by Jan 31... did you just go ask your Payroll? (and a growing number of business have W-2's available online)

If you know the Tax ID number of your employer (it would be on last year's W-2), you probably can get a local tax preparer to file the return using your last paystub.

H&R Block has a program where they will prepare the return using the paystub and LEND you the money against your expected refund, but there are probably some rather odious fees with that program.

H and r block will take your last pay stub of 2008 and give you a portion but not all

Some early refund is better than nothing, though I would be wary of the fees that H&R Block will charge for this service.

i am trying to get it before they mail it.


I'm going to get on my soapbox here. Generally the reason people are in a hurry to file their tax return is because they are expecting a significant refund. But if that's the case, it means they are not managing their exemptions well.

Tax witholding from your paycheck is an interest free loan to Uncle Sam. Personally, I prefer to not loan my money interest free. Therefore, I manage my exemptions (via a W4) so that my withholding is reduced. This means that, at tax time, I either get a small refund or have to pay a small amount (generally its about $100 +/-).

So instead of chafing at the bit to get your refund, change your W4. If you are unsure how much, get one of the tax prep programs and do What If forecasts to see what the best balance would be for you.

Nice soapbox!

Could not have said it better myself (though I will probably try before the end of this tax season)!