How can I get a printout of past work history?

Getting a printout of your past work history usually depends on who you need the record from.

Here are the most common ways to get a printout of your work history, depending on the source:

1. From Your Former Employers (Personal Records)

This is the most direct way to compile a detailed work history, often needed for job applications or background checks.

• Request an Employment Verification Letter: Contact the Human Resources (HR) department of your former companies. They can often provide a formal letter stating:
  • Your job title(s).
  • Your dates of employment (start and end).
  • Sometimes, your salary and reason for separation.
• Check Your Personnel File: In some cases, you may be able to request a copy of your personnel file, which contains your performance reviews, initial application, and other documentation. This is often governed by state/local laws.
• Use Your Personal Documents: Compile and print out copies of documents you already have:
  • Old pay stubs or W-2 forms (these prove employment dates and earnings).
  • Copies of offer letters or resignation letters.

2. From the Social Security Administration (Official Earnings Record)

The SSA maintains a record of your earnings history, which indirectly confirms your employment. This is the official government record of your work history.

• Access Your Online Account:
  1. Go to the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website.
  2. Create or log in to your personal my Social Security account.
  3. You can view, download, and print your Social Security Statement or your Detailed Earnings Record.
• What it Shows: This record lists the names of the employers who reported wages to the IRS for you and the total earnings for each year. It does not typically list specific job titles or exact start/end dates.

3. From Your State’s Unemployment Office

If you have ever collected unemployment benefits, your state’s Department of Labor or Workforce Services may have records of your recent employers and earnings.

• Contact the Office: You would need to contact the specific state office where you filed for unemployment and inquire about how to request a copy of your wage or claim history.

4. Through a Consumer Reporting Agency (Background Check)

If you are trying to see what information a third party might find, you can sometimes request a copy of your file from a consumer reporting agency that specializes in employment background checks (like The Work Number).

• Request Your File: By law, you are generally entitled to a copy of any information a Consumer Reporting Agency has collected about you. You would need to contact the specific agency to initiate the request.

Key Takeaway for a Printout:

For an official earnings record (primarily for retirement or disability verification), use the Social Security Administration.

For a detailed, chronological work history (primarily for job applications or resumes), you will need to contact your former employers and compile the documents you already have.