Final answer:
Copy A of Form W-2 and Form W-3 must be filed with the SSA by January 31 following the calendar year in which the wages were paid.
Step-by-step explanation:
All 2016 Copy A of Form W-2 and Form W-3 must be filed with the Social Security Administration (SSA) by January 31 following the calendar year in which the wages were paid. This deadline is critical for employers to meet their tax reporting obligations. It is important to note that the filing of tax forms and the payment of taxes are distinct processes—while taxpayers are required to file their income tax forms by the middle of April, employers must report wage and tax statements for their employees by the end of January.