How to Create and File 1099s in QuickBooks Online

As a business owner, it’s important to understand your tax obligations and reporting requirements. One key aspect is the issuance of 1099 forms to certain vendors or contractors. QuickBooks Online provides a streamlined process for setting up and managing 1099 reporting, making tax time less stressful. 

In this article, we will explore what a 1099 form is, when it is needed to be set up, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to set up 1099 reporting in QuickBooks Online.

Understanding the 1099 Form

A 1099 form is an information return that businesses use to report various types of payments made to individuals or entities who are not their employees. It is used to report income that is not subject to regular payroll tax withholding. The most common type is the 1099-MISC, which reports payments for services rendered by non-employees, such as independent contractors, freelancers, or vendors.

When is 1099 Setup Needed?

You need to set up 1099 reporting in QuickBooks Online if you make payments to vendors or contractors that meet certain criteria. Here are the general requirements for 1099 reporting:

• Business Payments: If you operate a trade or business, and you made payments totaling $600 or more for services, rents, prizes, awards, or other reportable categories to an individual or unincorporated business, you are generally required to issue a 1099-MISC form.
• Non-Employee Compensation: If you paid an individual or partnership at least $600 for services provided in the course of your trade or business, you must report that payment on a 1099-MISC form. This typically applies to independent contractors or freelancers.

Setting Up 1099 Reporting in QuickBooks Online

Click on the Taxes tab located in the left-hand navigation menu, and then select 1099 Filings. 

You then have to complete five steps:

Company Info Verification: Verify that your company’s information, including the legal business name, address, and Tax Identification Number (TIN), is accurate. Make any necessary updates or corrections as needed.

Setting up 1099 in QuickBooks

Accounts Setup: In this step, you’ll map your accounts to the appropriate boxes on the 1099-MISC form. Review your expense accounts and assign them to the relevant 1099-MISC boxes based on the nature of the payment. QuickBooks Online will help you with suggestions for mapping.

Contractors Setup: Next, review and verify the contractor information. Ensure that each contractor’s name, address, and TIN or Social Security Number (SSN) are correct. Make any necessary updates or additions to your contractor list.

Review and Make Corrections: Take the time to review the information entered for accuracy. QuickBooks Online provides a review section where you can check all the details before proceeding. Make any necessary corrections or edits to ensure the information is correct.

File 1099 Forms: Once you have reviewed and confirmed the information, you are ready to file your 1099 forms. QuickBooks Online offers the option to e-file the forms directly with the IRS on your behalf. This streamlines the filing process and ensures that your forms are submitted electronically. Additionally, QuickBooks Online can also e-deliver the 1099 forms to your contractors, making it easier for them to access and view their forms online. If needed, you can choose to print and mail copies of the 1099 forms to your contractors.

To learn more about how to create and file 1099s in QuickBooks, watch the video below:

Filing 1099 forms can be a manageable process with the right tools and guidance. QuickBooks Online simplifies the process by providing step-by-step instructions and a user-friendly interface to set up and file your 1099 forms accurately.