Green Light Financial

The "No-Panic" 1099 Checklist

Tax season doesn't have to be scary. Here’s your simple guide to getting 1099s done right (and on time!).

Do This...	By This Date...	Why?
Send 1099-NEC to Contractors	Jan 31, 2026	Big One! Mail or email it so they can do their taxes.
File 1099-NEC with IRS	Jan 31, 2026	Tell the IRS what you paid people.
Send 1099-MISC (Rent/Royalties)	Feb 15, 2026	Only for rent, lawyers, or prize money.

Did you pay a freelancer, contractor, or vendor $600 or more last year? If yes, check this list:

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Get Their Legal Name: Not just 'Bob the Builder'—we need the name on their tax return.

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Get Their Address: Where are we sending this thing?

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Get Their Tax ID (TIN): This is their Social Security Number (SSN) or Business ID (EIN).

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Ask for a W-9 Form: The magic form where they write all this down for you. Always ask for one!

Check the Math

Does your bookkeeping match what you're about to report? Double-check it!

Who is a Corporation?

You usually DON'T need to send 1099s to C-Corps or S-Corps. (Lawyers are the exception!)

Credit Card Payments?

If you paid via credit card or PayPal, the processor handles the 1099. You're off the hook!

Pick the Right Form

1099-NEC is for work/services. 1099-MISC is for rent or other weird income.

1
Go Digital (It's Easier)
Use a service like Track1099 or Tax1099. It's cheap and saves you from licking stamps.
2
Mail Copies to People
If you aren't emailing them, put Copy B in the mail by Jan 31st.
3
Send Copy A to the IRS
The IRS needs their copy too. E-filing handles this automatically.
4
Don't Forget Your State
Some states want a copy too. Check if your e-file service does this for you.
5
Save Your Proof
Keep a copy for 4 years, just in case anyone asks.

Don't want to deal with the paperwork? We can file your 1099s for you so you can get back to running your business.