How To Print W3 In QuickBooks Desktop?
How To Print W3 In QuickBooks Desktop?

I. Introduction


Printing the W-3 form is an essential task for businesses using QuickBooks Desktop to report employee wages and tax information to the Social Security Administration (SSA). The W-3 form summarizes the total wages, taxes withheld, and other relevant information from the W-2 forms. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough on how to print the W-3 form in QuickBooks Desktop.

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II. Preparing for W-3 Printing


  1. Verify Employee Data: Ensure that all employee information, including Social Security numbers, addresses, and wage details, is accurate and up to date in QuickBooks Desktop.
  2. Review Payroll Setup: Double-check that your payroll setup is complete and accurate, including tax setup and any necessary adjustments or corrections.
  3. Confirm Form Availability: Make sure you have the necessary forms and envelopes for printing the W-3 form. You can purchase pre-printed forms from authorized vendors or use blank perforated paper that is compatible with your printer.

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III. Setting Up W-3 Preferences in QuickBooks Desktop


Before printing the W-3 form, you need to set up the W-3 preferences in QuickBooks Desktop. Follow these steps:

  1. Open QuickBooks Desktop and go to the “Edit” menu.
  2. Select “Preferences” from the drop-down menu.
  3. In the left navigation panel, choose “Payroll & Employees” and click on the “Company Preferences” tab.
  4. Click on the “Full Payroll” option if it’s not already selected.
  5. Click on the “Preferences for Forms” button.
  6. In the “Tax Forms” section, click on the “W-3” form.
  7. Review and adjust the preferences as per your requirements.
  8. Click “OK” to save the preferences.

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IV. Generating and Printing the W-3 Form


  1. Launch the W-3 Form Generation:
    • Go to the “Employees” menu in QuickBooks Desktop.
    • Select “Payroll Center.”
  2. Select “File Forms”:
    • Click on the “File Forms” tab in the Payroll Center.
    • Choose the “Annual Forms” section.
  3. Select “Federal Forms”: Click on “Federal Forms” from the list of available forms.
  4. Choose “W-3”:
    • Select the “W-3” form from the list of available federal forms.
    • Click on “Create Form” to proceed.
  5. Verify Information:
    • QuickBooks Desktop will display a summary of the W-2 forms and data included in the W-3 form.
    • Review the information and verify its accuracy.
  6. Choose Printing Options: Select the desired printing option for the W-3 form. You have two options:
    • Print on pre-printed forms: If you have pre-printed W-3 forms, choose this option. Ensure that the forms are loaded into the printer.
    • Print on blank paper: If you are using blank perforated paper, choose this option. QuickBooks Desktop will print the form and employee information on the blank paper.
  7. Print the W-3 Form:
    • Review the information on the screen, including the number of copies to print and the print destination.
    • Click “Print” to start printing the W-3 form.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the printing process.

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V. Distributing and Filing the W-3 Form


  1. Separate Copies: Carefully separate the printed copies of the W-3 form, ensuring each copy is kept separately.
  2. Distribute to Appropriate Recipients:
    • Keep Copy A for your records.
    • Distribute Copy B to each employee for their personal records.
    • Mail Copy C to the Social Security Administration (SSA) along with the required transmittal form (typically Form W-3).
  3. Retain Copies: Keep copies of the W-3 form and supporting documentation for your records. These copies will be useful for tax filing and future reference.

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VI. Conclusion


Printing the W-3 form in QuickBooks Desktop is a straightforward process that ensures accurate reporting of employee wages and taxes to the Social Security Administration (SSA). By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can set up the necessary preferences, generate the W-3 form, and print it for distribution and filing. Remember to review and verify the data before printing, and comply with the SSA’s instructions for distribution and filing deadlines. With QuickBooks Desktop, you can efficiently manage your payroll and maintain compliance with tax regulations.

Geeks Jonson : Jonson is a highly skilled accounting specialist and QuickBooks expert with a deep passion for numbers and financial management. With years of experience in the field, Jonson has established himself as a trusted professional known for his exceptional expertise in accounting and proficiency in QuickBooks software. Jonson's comprehensive knowledge of accounting principles, financial analysis, and regulatory compliance sets him apart in the industry.