The Clock Is Ticking: Your IRS Information Return Checklist

Staying compliant with IRS information-return rules is a key part of year-end reporting. With stricter e-filing requirements and firm deadlines, now is the time to prepare for the 2026 filing season.

Who Must File?

Any business – corporation, partnership, LLC, sole proprietorship, trust, or estate – that makes reportable payments must file information returns and provide statements to recipients.

A payment is generally reportable if it:

Is made in the course of business
Is paid to someone who is not an employee
Is paid to an individual, partnership, estate, or certain corporations
Meets IRS thresholds (e.g., $600 for nonemployee compensation; $10 for interest or dividends)

Common reportable payments include nonemployee compensation, interest, dividends, rent, royalties, and certain real estate transactions.

Electronic Filing Is Now Mandatory for Most Businesses

If you file 10 or more information returns in total, you must e-file. (Example: 5 W-2s + 5 1099s = e-file required.)

If you need a Transmitter Control Code (TCC), apply early – processing can take up to 45 days.

Key 2026 Deadlines

January 31, 2026

W-2s to employees
1099-NEC to recipients
W-2 and 1099-NEC filings with the IRS

February 28, 2026

Paper filing deadline for most other 1099s (if eligible)

March 31, 2026

E-file deadline for most other 1099s, including 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-MISC, 1099-R, 1099-K, and the new 1099-DA for digital asset transactions

What’s New This Year

Form 1099-DA for digital asset transactions
Updated Form 1096 for paper submissions
Increased IRS enforcement of the 10-return e-file mandate

Best Practices

Start early: Request W-9s from vendors as soon as you know that payments will be reportable, and prepare year-end data as soon as possible.
Verify TINs: Incorrect numbers trigger IRS notices.
Check worker classification: Avoid misclassifying contractors and employees.
Use e-filing tools: They reduce errors and streamline compliance.
Keep records: Retain copies of filed forms for at least four years.

Final Thoughts

Information-return compliance is essential – and early preparation makes it far easier. DBMCPA is here to help you navigate these requirements, file accurately, and avoid costly penalties. If you’d like assistance reviewing your 2025 vendor list, preparing filings, or setting up an efficient year-end reporting process, please contact us by 01/12/2026 so we can support you effectively.