Simply put, 1099s and W-2s are two separate tax forms for two different types of workers. If you're an independent contractor, you get a 1099 form. As a W-2employee, payroll taxes are automatically deducted from your paycheck and then paid to the government through your employee.

If you can't get your Form W-2 from your employer and you previously attached it to your paper tax return, you can order a copy of the entire return from the IRS for a fee. Complete and mail Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, along with the required fee

W2 Consultant. When you are a W2 technology consultant, you are an employee of the organization representing you to the 'end client.' The benefits to this are many, including: Your W2 status means your company pays half of the Social Security and Medical taxes on the money you earn at that position.