When are 1099s due? The deadlines you'll need to remember

If you've procrastinated on filling out your 1099 form(s), you're not alone. Tax season can be stressful, and with changing 1099 deadlines, it doesn't get any easier.

Reporting the income you paid out to people like contractors and freelancers over the year doesn’t have to be stressful. You can prepare ahead of time by learning about what you need to file and know when deadlines for your 1099 freelance taxes.

Here's what you need to know about when 1099's are due, and how to avoid penalties that you may acquire if you forget to file or file late.

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Types of 1099 IRS forms

Although people talk about the 1099 as one form, it actually encompasses several types:

• Form 1099-INT: Financial institutions file this form if you receive more than $10 in interest from them during the year.
• Form 1099-DIV: If you own securities or stock and receive over $10 in dividends or capital gains, 1099-DIV is filed by the company/financial institution that paid you the dividends.
• Form 1099-MISC: This 1099 is for rent, royalties, and other income over $600 paid out during the year.
• Form 1099-NEC: The 1099-NEC is a new form that reports independent contractor payments over $600 (non-employee compensation) and is often mistaken for the 1099-MISC.
• Form 1099-K: If you own a business that's made more than $600 in transactions after 2021 through a third-party service like Venmo or PayPal, you’ll receive this form from that Merchant Services Provider.
• Form 1099-B: Financial institutions and mutual fund brokers (eg Fidelity, Vanguard, etc.) send out this form when securities like stock, mutual funds, ETFs, PTPs are sold.
• Form 1099-G: This form reports compensation that comes from unemployment, as well as state and local income tax refunds, taxable grants, and agricultural payments.
• Form 1099-R: If you get a distribution from your retirement plan, such as a 401(k) plan, Roth IRA, or IRS, you'll need to file the 1099-R form.
• Form 1099C - This form is for canceled debt
• Form 1099S - Sales of real estate will require this form to be sent out to the seller or entity paid.
• 1099SA - Distributions from HSA’s (Health Savings Accounts)
• RRB/SSA1099 - For railroad benefits or Social Security benefits

The good news is that, regardless of how many types there are, the Internal Revenue Service keeps the due dates for all the 1099 forms pretty consistent.

What is the 1099 deadline to send out?

Although it's unlikely that you'll need to deal with most of these forms, 1099 due dates can change depending on whether you're paper filing by mail or filing electronically. That’s why you want to know what forms apply to you.

Form 1099-MISC isn't used for independent contractors anymore. Now, 1099-NEC is used for non-employee compensation such as contract work done for clients. 1099-MISC is only used for the other miscellaneous payments

While the deadline for issuing the 1099-MISC to recipients has consistently been January 31st, the inclusion of the 1099-NEC has changed the timeline for non-employee compensation. The current deadline for either of these forms is January 31st. If that date falls on a weekend, the deadline moves to the next business day. Paper filers must disclose their 1099 to the IRS by February 28, 2024. It is possible to file a 1099 extension. Be sure to do it before the due date. If you lost your 1099, there are steps to recover it and file correctly.

If you choose to file electronically, you have until March 31, 2024, to send the information returns to the IRS. The Form 1099-NEC is due to the IRS and recipients by January 31, 2024.

The good news is that the other forms listed above, like the 1099-INT or 1099-K, are also due by January 31st. So you don't need to worry about memorizing different due dates. (The IRS also has a due date chart at the bottom of this page.)

State variations in 1099 deadlines

Understanding how state deadlines differ from federal deadlines

The 1099 deadline to send out forms to recipients is generally January 31 each year, matching the federal requirement. However, some states impose their own deadlines for submitting 1099 forms to state tax agencies, which can differ from the federal schedule. For example, California requires businesses to file 1099 forms with the Franchise Tax Board by February 28 if filing on paper, or March 31 if filing electronically in 2024.

These state-specific deadlines matter because missing them can result in penalties separate from federal fines. States like New York and Massachusetts also have unique submission dates and may require electronic filing for certain thresholds. Understanding these variations ensures you stay compliant at both federal and state levels.

To navigate these differences, start by checking your state’s department of revenue website for the latest 1099 filing deadlines. This helps you plan your bookkeeping and tax preparation timelines effectively, avoiding last-minute rushes and penalties.

How to manage multiple state 1099 deadlines if you operate in several states

If your business operates in multiple states, managing 1099 deadlines can become complex because each state may have distinct filing requirements. The key is to maintain organized records of where your contractors or vendors are located and which states require separate 1099 submissions.

Using accounting software like QuickBooks Online or specialized tax tools such as Tax1099 can automate tracking and remind you of state-specific deadlines. These platforms often integrate with your financial data and generate state-compliant 1099 forms, reducing manual errors and missed deadlines.

Additionally, consider setting internal deadlines earlier than the earliest state deadline you face. For example, if California’s February 28 deadline is the earliest among your states, aim to finalize and send out all 1099s by mid-February. This proactive approach gives you a buffer to address any issues before state deadlines pass.

Exceptions and special cases in state 1099 filing requirements

Some states have exceptions or additional requirements that affect the 1099 deadline to send out forms. For instance, Vermont requires businesses to file 1099s electronically if submitting 25 or more forms, with a deadline of March 31. Meanwhile, states like Texas do not have a separate 1099 filing requirement beyond the federal submission.

Another special case involves payments made to nonresidents or out-of-state contractors. Certain states require withholding or separate reporting for these payments, which may affect when and how you file 1099s. For example, New York mandates withholding on payments to nonresident independent contractors and requires filing a Form IT-2104.1 alongside the 1099.

To handle these exceptions, consult your state’s tax authority or a tax professional familiar with multi-state filings. Staying informed about these nuances ensures you meet all deadlines and avoid unexpected penalties in 2024 and beyond.

1099 forms deadline extensions

When can you request an extension for 1099 deadlines?

You can request an extension to file 1099 forms with the IRS if you need more time beyond the original deadline. The IRS allows a 30-day automatic extension for filing 1099 forms, which moves the deadline from January 31, 2024, to March 1, 2024. This extension applies only to submitting forms to the IRS, not to sending copies to recipients.

To obtain this automatic extension, file Form 8809, "Application for Extension of Time to File Information Returns," before the January 31, 2024 deadline. Submit Form 8809 online through the IRS FIRE system or by mail to meet requirements. This extension does not apply if you file electronically; in that case, the deadline remains January 31.

Freelancers and small business owners should plan ahead to submit Form 8809 to prevent late-filing penalties. Use accounting software like QuickBooks or tax platforms such as TurboTax to track deadlines and send extension requests promptly. File Form 8809 before January 31, 2024, to secure the extra 30 days for IRS submission.

How extensions affect sending 1099 forms to recipients

The deadline to send 1099 forms to recipients is always January 31, regardless of whether you receive an extension for IRS filing. This means you must provide contractors or vendors with their 1099 copies by this date to comply with IRS rules. Extensions only delay the submission to the IRS, not the recipient delivery.

Failing to send 1099 forms to recipients on time can lead to confusion and potential penalties. For example, if you mail forms late, recipients may not have enough time to use them for their own tax filings. To avoid this, use electronic delivery options like email or secure portals, which can speed up distribution and provide proof of delivery.

Small business owners should prioritize sending recipient copies by January 31, even if they plan to file with the IRS later. Tools like HelloBonsai or Tax1099 offer integrated solutions to generate and send 1099 forms electronically, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with IRS rules.

Penalties and consequences of missing 1099 deadlines

Missing the 1099 deadline to send out forms or file with the IRS can result in significant penalties. For 2024, IRS penalties range from $60 to $310 per form depending on how late the filing is, with a maximum penalty over $1.2 million for small businesses. These fines increase if the failure is intentional.

Requesting an extension with Form 8809 can help avoid penalties related to late IRS filing, but it does not protect against penalties for late recipient delivery. For example, if you send recipient copies after January 31, you may face fines even if you filed with the IRS on time. The IRS also charges higher penalties if you file corrected 1099 forms late.

Minimize risks by using calendar reminders and tax software alerts to track both recipient and IRS deadlines. If you miss a deadline, file and send the forms as soon as possible to reduce penalties. Staying proactive with extensions and timely delivery is the best strategy for freelancers and small businesses in 2024.

What happens if you miss the 1099 deadline to send out?

The IRS imposes penalties on businesses and individuals who miss Form 1099 deadlines. Missing the January 31, 2024 deadline can result in costly fines, especially if multiple 1099 forms are late.

If you're between one or thirty days late, you'll receive a 1099 late filing penalty of $50 per form. If you're more than thirty days late but you manage to file before August 1st, that penalty jumps to $110 per form.

Anytime you file after August 1st, you’ll pay $280 per form. And, if you intentionally disregard to issue 1099s, then you're looking at an expensive $570 penalty per form.

As long as you manage to file your taxes at some point, the maximum penalty will only be $280 per form. Even if it's been months past the 1099 deadline, you're better off filing the late forms rather than hoping the IRS doesn't notice that you never issued them.

Keep in mind that these related fees aren't totals - they are per form. So, if you forget to file fifty or a hundred 1099 forms, you could be looking at thousands of dollars worth of penalties as a taxpayer. The maximum penalties and specific rules can be found here.

Penalties for not filing 1099 forms on time

Understanding the IRS penalties for late 1099 filings

The IRS imposes specific penalties for failing to file 1099 forms by the deadline. These penalties vary based on how late the form is submitted and the size of your business. For 2025 filings, if you miss the January 31, 2025, deadline to send out 1099s to recipients or the February 28 (or March 31 if filing electronically) deadline to file with the IRS, you risk fines starting at $60 per form.

For example, if you file within 30 days after the deadline, the penalty increases to $120 per form. If you file more than 30 days late but before August 1, the penalty rises to $310 per form. Filing after August 1 or not filing at all can lead to penalties up to $630 per form. Small businesses with gross receipts under $5 million face reduced penalties, but they still must meet deadlines to avoid fines.

To avoid these penalties, use tools like QuickBooks, Tax1099, or Track1099 to track your 1099 forms and deadlines. Set reminders well before the due dates to ensure timely filing. Staying organized can save hundreds or thousands in penalties, especially if you handle multiple contractors or vendors.

How state-specific rules affect 1099 filing penalties

Some states have their own 1099 filing requirements and penalties that differ from federal rules. For instance, California requires businesses to file 1099 forms with the Franchise Tax Board by March 31, with penalties starting at $50 per form if late. New York also enforces penalties for late 1099 submissions, with fines up to $250 per form depending on the delay.

Freelancers and small business owners should check their state’s tax agency website for exact deadlines and penalty amounts. States like Texas and Florida currently do not require separate 1099 filings, but this can change, so staying updated is important. Using tax software that supports multi-state filings, such as TurboTax or TaxAct, can help manage these requirements efficiently.

Ignoring state deadlines can lead to unexpected fines on top of federal penalties. To avoid this, create a calendar with both federal and state 1099 deadlines. This practice ensures compliance and protects your business from costly mistakes.

Steps to take if you miss the 1099 filing deadline

If you realize you missed the 1099 deadline, act quickly to minimize penalties. The IRS allows late filings with reduced penalties if you file before August 1. Start by gathering all necessary information, including payee details and amounts, and file electronically using the IRS FIRE system or authorized e-file providers like Track1099.

You should also send corrected 1099 forms to recipients as soon as possible to avoid confusion during their tax filing. If penalties are assessed, you can request a waiver if you have a reasonable cause, such as a natural disaster or serious illness, by submitting a written explanation to the IRS.

Regularly reviewing your 1099 process and using automation tools like HelloBonsai’s tax reminders can prevent future late filings. Taking these steps promptly reduces financial risk and keeps your business in good standing with tax authorities.

Final thoughts on the 1099 deadline to send out

Unfortunately, the 1099 deadlines are some of the earliest tax due dates that you'll have to deal with. So, when are 1099 due? The short answer is usually January 31st, but it depends on the specific 1099.

While the IRS has extended the deadline from January 31st to February 1st for the 1099-MISC form as a one-off extension, you're better off filing early than trying to accomplish everything at the last minute. Will the IRS catch a missing 1099? Yes, if you forget to file, the IRS will have the records of your income.

There is a huge penalty for not filing 1099 forms and they can quickly add up the longer you don't report your earnings.

File your 1099 forms even if you're late past the deadline. Paying up to $280 per form is better than incurring a $570 penalty per form.

We want to make sure you never miss a deadline by giving you automated reminders through our awesome tax and accounting app for freelancers. Try out the Bonsai accounting software for 1099 workers to help ensure you never miss another deadline.

FAQs about the 1099 deadline to send out

Still have questions about 1099 deadlines for the tax year? Here's what you need to know.

How to know if an independent contractor needs a form 1099-nec?

Depending on how they filed with the IRS, not all independent contractors may need a 1099-form, especially if they file as a C/S corporation including LLCs that've elected to be taxed as corporations. Freelancers who don't file as as a C or S corporation will need a 1099, but the rules can change depending on the type of corporation they file as.

You must send a 1099 to each contractor paid more than $600 by January 31, 2024. In-house employees receive a Form W-2 instead of a 1099.

For single-member LLCs (disregarded entities) or limited liability partnerships, they will need a 1099 form. However, if they're filing as an S-corporation, you don't need to issue a 1099-NEC to them.

You should always get a W9 from your independent contractor to file, which will identify whether they're an LLC, LLP, or an S-corp or another type of entity. They should also provide you with their taxpayer identification number.

What happens if you file a 1099 for a contractor that doesn't need it?

If you're keeping track of a hundred contractors or more, it's not always easy to remember who needs a 1099 and who doesn't. The good news is that even if you issue a 1099 to a recipient who doesn't need one, the IRS won't penalize you. Those fees are reserved for missing the deadline.

As long as everyone who needs a 1099 gets one by the deadline, you shouldn't face any penalties from the IRS.

Disclaimer: Tax rules frequently change and are highly specific to your situation. Please consult a qualified tax professional for help on filing your tax returns.