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The IRS 1096 form plays a vital role in the world of tax reporting, serving as a summary cover sheet for various information returns that businesses and organizations must file with the Internal Revenue Service. When you submit forms like the 1099 or W-2, the 1096 form acts as a crucial companion, providing the IRS with a concise overview of the total number of forms submitted and the types of payments reported. This document is particularly important for those who file paper returns, as it helps the IRS organize and process the information efficiently. Understanding the details of the 1096 form is essential for anyone involved in tax preparation, as it not only outlines the necessary information but also ensures compliance with federal regulations. With deadlines to keep in mind and specific requirements to follow, mastering the ins and outs of this form can save you time and headaches come tax season.

Preview - IRS 1096 Form

Attention filers of Form 1096:
This form is provided for informational purposes only. It appears in red, similar to the official
IRS form. The official printed version of this IRS form is scannable, but a copy, printed from
this website, is not. Do not print and file a Form 1096 downloaded from this website; a
penalty may be imposed for filing with the IRS information return forms that can’t be
scanned. See part O in the current General Instructions for Certain Information Returns,
available at www.irs.gov/form1099, for more information about penalties.
To order official IRS information returns, which include a scannable Form 1096 for filing with
the IRS, visit www.IRS.gov/orderforms. Click on Employer and Information Returns, and
we’ll mail you the forms you request and their instructions, as well as any publications you
may order.
Information returns may also be filed electronically. To file electronically, you must have
software, or a service provider, that will create the file in the proper format. More information
can be found at:
IRS Filing Information Returns Electronically (FIRE) system (visit
www.IRS.gov/FIRE
), or
IRS Affordable Care Act Information Returns (AIR) program (visit www.IRS.gov/AIR).
See IRS Publications 1141, 1167, and 1179 for more information about printing these tax
forms.
Do Not Staple
6969
Form 1096
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Annual Summary and Transmittal of
U.S. Information Returns
OMB No. 1545-0108
2025
FILER’S name
Street address (including room or suite number)
City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code
Name of person to contact Telephone number
Email address Fax number
For Official Use Only
1
Employer identification number
2 Social security number 3 Total number of forms 4 Federal income tax withheld
$
5
Total amount reported with this Form 1096
$
6 Enter an “X” in only one box below to indicate the type of form being filed.
W-2G
32
1097-BTC
50
1098
81
1098-C
78
1098-E
84
1098-F
03
1098-Q
74
1098-T
83
1099-A
80
1099-B
79
1099-C
85
1099-CAP
73
1099-DA
7A
1099-DIV
91
1099-G
86
1099-INT
92
1099-K
10
1099-LS
16
1099-LTC
93
1099-MISC
95
1099-NEC
71
1099-OID
96
1099-PATR
97
1099-Q
31
1099-QA
1A
1099-R
98
1099-S
75
1099-SA
94
1099-SB
43
3921
25
3922
26
5498
28
5498-ESA
72
5498-QA
2A
5498-SA
27
Return this entire page to the Internal Revenue Service. Photocopies are not acceptable.
Send this form, with the copies of the form checked in box 6, to the IRS in a flat mailer (not folded).
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return and accompanying documents and, to the best of my knowledge and belief, they are true, correct, and complete.
Signature Title Date
Instructions
Future developments. For the latest information about developments
related to Form 1096, such as legislation enacted after it was published, go
to www.irs.gov/Form1096.
Caution: You may be required to electronically file (e-file) information
returns as the e-file threshold is 10 (calculated by aggregating all
information returns), effective for information returns required to be filed on
or after January 1, 2024. Go to www.irs.gov/InfoReturn for e-file options.
Also, see part F in the current General Instructions for Certain Information
Returns.
Purpose of form. Use this form to transmit paper Forms 1097, 1098,
1099, 3921, 3922, 5498, and W-2G to the IRS.
Who must file. Any person or entity who files any form checked in box 6
above must file Form 1096 to transmit those forms to the IRS.
Caution: Your name and taxpayer identification number (TIN) (employer
identification number (EIN) or social security number (SSN)) must match
the name and TIN used on your 94X series tax return(s) or you may be
subject to information return penalties. Do not use the name and/or TIN of
your paying agent or service bureau.
Enter the filer’s name, address (including room, suite, or other unit
number), and TIN in the spaces provided on the form. The name, address,
and TIN of the filer on this form must be the same as those you enter in the
upper left area of Form 1097, 1098, 1099, 3921, 3922, 5498, or W-2G.
When to file. If any date shown falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal
holiday in the District of Columbia or where the return is to be filed, the due
date is the next business day. File Form 1096 in the calendar year following
the year for which the information is being reported, as follows.
• With Forms 1097, 1098, 1099, 3921, 3922, or W-2G, file by February 28.*
• With Forms 1099-NEC, file by January 31.
• With Forms 5498, file by May 31.
* Leap years do not impact the due date. See Announcement 91-179,
1991-49 I.R.B. 78, for more information.
Where To File
Send all information returns filed on paper with Form 1096 to the following.
If your principal business, office or
agency, or legal residence in the
case of an individual, is located in:
Use the following
address:
Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware,
Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine,
Massachusetts, Mississippi, New
Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico,
New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas,
Vermont, Virginia
Internal Revenue Service
P.O. Box 149213
Austin, TX 78714-9213
Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho,
Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas,
Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri,
Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North
Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South
Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee,
Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Internal Revenue Service Center
P.O. Box 219256
Kansas City, MO 64121-9256
For more information and the Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice,
see the current General Instructions for Certain Information Returns.
Cat. No. 14400O
Form 1096 (2025) Created 3/20/25
Form 1096 (2025)
Page 2
California, Connecticut,
District of Columbia, Louisiana,
Maryland, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island, West Virginia
Internal Revenue Service Center
1973 North Rulon White Blvd.
Ogden, UT 84201
If your legal residence or principal place of business is outside the United
States, file with the Internal Revenue Service, P.O. Box 149213, Austin, TX
78714-9213.
Transmitting to the IRS. Group the forms by form number and transmit
each group with a separate Form 1096. For example, if you must file both
Forms 1098 and 1099-A, complete one Form 1096 to transmit your Forms
1098 and another Form 1096 to transmit your Forms 1099-A. Do not send a
form (1099, 5498, etc.) containing summary (subtotal) information with Form
1096. Summary information for the group of forms being sent is entered only
in boxes 3, 4, and 5 of Form 1096.
Corrected returns. Originals and corrections of the same type of return can
be submitted using one Form 1096. For information about filing corrections,
see the current General Instructions for Certain Information Returns.
Box 1 or 2. Enter your TIN in either box 1 or 2, not both. Sole proprietors and
all others must enter their EIN in box 1. Individuals not in a trade or business
must enter their SSN in box 2. However, sole proprietors who do not have an
EIN must enter their SSN in box 2. Use the same EIN or SSN on Form 1096
that you use on Form 1097, 1098, 1099, 3921, 3922, 5498, or W-2G.
Box 3. Enter the number of forms you are transmitting with this Form 1096.
Do not include blank or voided forms or the Form 1096 in your total. Enter
the number of correctly completed forms, not the number of pages, being
transmitted. For example, if you send one page of three-to-a-page Forms
1098-E with a Form 1096 and you have correctly completed two Forms
1098-E on that page, enter “2” in box 3 of Form 1096.
Box 4. Enter the total federal income tax withheld shown on the forms being
transmitted with this Form 1096.
Box 5. No entry is required if you are filing Form 1098-T, 1099-A, or 1099-G.
For all other forms in the listing that follows, enter the total of the amounts
from the specific boxes identified for each form.
Form W-2G Box 1
Form 1097-BTC Box 1
Form 1098 Boxes 1 and 6
Form 1098-C Box 4c
Form 1098-E Box 1
Form 1098-F Box 1
Form 1098-Q Box 4
Form 1099-B Boxes 1d and 13
Form 1099-C Box 2
Form 1099-CAP Box 2
Form 1099-DA Box 1f
Form 1099-DIV Boxes 1a, 2a, 3, 9, 10, and 12
Form 1099-INT Boxes 1, 3, 8, 10, 11, and 13
Form 1099-K Box 1a
Form 1099-LS Box 1
Form 1099-LTC Boxes 1 and 2
Form 1099-MISC Boxes 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 11
Form 1099-NEC Boxes 1 and 3
Form 1099-OID Boxes 1, 2, 5, 6, and 8
Form 1099-PATR Boxes 1, 2, 3, and 5
Form 1099-Q Box 1
Form 1099-QA Box 1
Form 1099-R Box 1
Form 1099-S Box 2
Form 1099-SA Box 1
Form 1099-SB Boxes 1 and 2
Form 3921 Boxes 3 and 4
Form 3922 Boxes 3, 4, and 5
Form 5498 Boxes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12b, 13a, and 14a
Form 5498-ESA Boxes 1 and 2
Form 5498-QA Boxes 1 and 2
Form 5498-SA Box 1
Online fillable forms. Forms 1097-BTC, 1098-C, 1098-MA, 1098-Q, 1099-
CAP, 1099-LTC, 1099-Q, 1099-QA, 1099-SA, 3922, 5498-ESA, 5498-QA,
and 5498-SA have been converted to online fillable PDFs. For more
information, see Online fillable forms in the current General Instructions for
Certain Information Returns.

Document Specifics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The IRS Form 1096 serves as a summary of information returns being submitted to the IRS.
Filing Requirement Form 1096 must be filed when submitting paper copies of Forms 1099, 1098, 5498, or W-2G.
Deadline The deadline for submitting Form 1096 is typically February 28th of the year following the tax year.
Electronic Filing If filing electronically, Form 1096 is not required; however, other forms must be submitted electronically.
Who Must File Any business or individual who issues information returns must file Form 1096.
State-Specific Forms Some states may require their own versions of Form 1096 or similar forms. Check state regulations for specifics.
Governing Laws Federal law governs the use of Form 1096 under the Internal Revenue Code.
Penalties Failure to file Form 1096 on time may result in penalties from the IRS.
Record Keeping Taxpayers should keep copies of Form 1096 and associated information returns for at least three years.

IRS 1096: Usage Instruction

Filling out the IRS 1096 form is a straightforward process that requires attention to detail. Once completed, you will be ready to submit this form along with your other tax documents, ensuring everything is in order for the IRS.

  1. Gather Required Information: Collect all necessary details about the forms you are submitting, including the total number of forms and the total amount reported.
  2. Download the IRS 1096 Form: Access the IRS website to download the most current version of the 1096 form. Ensure you have the correct year’s form.
  3. Fill in Your Information: Enter your name, address, and the Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) in the designated fields.
  4. Indicate the Form Type: In the box labeled “Type of Return,” specify the type of forms you are submitting (e.g., 1099, W-2).
  5. Complete the Totals: Fill in the total number of forms you are submitting and the total amount reported on those forms.
  6. Sign and Date: At the bottom of the form, sign and date it. This confirms that the information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge.
  7. Make Copies: Before sending, make copies of the completed form for your records.
  8. Submit the Form: Send the completed 1096 form along with the corresponding forms to the IRS by the specified deadline.

Learn More on IRS 1096

What is the IRS 1096 form?

The IRS 1096 form is a summary form used to transmit paper forms 1099, 1098, 5498, or W-2G to the Internal Revenue Service. It serves as a cover sheet that provides essential information about the forms being submitted, including the total number of forms and the type of forms included. This form is necessary when you are filing these forms by mail rather than electronically.

Who needs to file Form 1096?

Form 1096 must be filed by any individual or business that submits paper versions of specific information returns to the IRS. This includes those who have issued payments that require reporting, such as interest, dividends, or non-employee compensation. If you are filing electronically, you do not need to submit Form 1096.

What information is required on Form 1096?

Form 1096 requires the following information:

  • Your name and address
  • Your taxpayer identification number (TIN)
  • The total number of forms being submitted
  • The total amount reported on those forms
  • The type of forms being submitted (e.g., 1099-MISC, 1099-INT)

Accurate completion of this form is crucial to ensure proper processing by the IRS.

When is Form 1096 due?

Form 1096 is due on the same day as the information returns it summarizes. For most forms, this deadline is January 31 of the year following the tax year in which the payments were made. If you are filing forms 1099-MISC that report non-employee compensation, the deadline is also January 31. It is important to file on time to avoid penalties.

Common mistakes

Filling out the IRS 1096 form can be a daunting task, and many people make mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One common error is failing to include all necessary forms. The 1096 serves as a summary for various information returns, such as Forms 1099 or W-2G. If you forget to attach these forms, the IRS may not process your submission correctly.

Another mistake often made is incorrect information on the form itself. This includes errors in the taxpayer identification number (TIN) or the name of the business. Even a small typo can result in significant issues, potentially leading to penalties or the need for resubmission. Always double-check your entries to ensure accuracy.

Many people also overlook the importance of the signature. The 1096 form requires a signature from the person preparing the form or an authorized individual. Neglecting to sign can render the form invalid, causing unnecessary delays in processing. Make sure to include a signature before submitting the form.

Timing is another critical factor. Some individuals submit the 1096 form late, which can result in penalties. The IRS has specific deadlines for filing, and it’s essential to be aware of these dates. Planning ahead and submitting early can help avoid last-minute issues.

Additionally, not keeping copies of submitted forms is a mistake many make. It’s crucial to retain a copy of the 1096 and any attached forms for your records. This can be beneficial if any discrepancies arise or if the IRS has questions about your submission.

Lastly, many people fail to check for updates to IRS guidelines. Tax laws and forms can change, and it’s important to stay informed about any modifications that may affect how you fill out the 1096 form. Regularly reviewing IRS resources can help ensure compliance and accuracy.

Documents used along the form

The IRS 1096 form is a summary of information returns that you submit to the IRS. It is important to understand that this form is often accompanied by several other documents. Below is a list of forms that are commonly used alongside the IRS 1096 form.

  • IRS 1099 Forms: These forms report various types of income other than wages, salaries, and tips. There are different versions of the 1099 form, including 1099-MISC for miscellaneous income and 1099-NEC for non-employee compensation.
  • IRS W-2 Forms: Employers use W-2 forms to report wages, tips, and other compensation paid to employees. This form also includes information about taxes withheld from an employee's paycheck.
  • IRS 941 Form: This form is used by employers to report payroll taxes. It provides details on income tax withheld, Social Security, and Medicare taxes for each quarter.
  • IRS 945 Form: This form reports federal income tax withheld from nonpayroll payments. It is often used for payments made to independent contractors or other non-employees.

Understanding these forms can help ensure accurate reporting and compliance with IRS regulations. It is essential to keep records of all these documents for your financial records and tax filings.

Similar forms

The IRS Form 1099 is similar to Form 1096 in that both are used to report income to the Internal Revenue Service. While Form 1096 serves as a summary of all 1099 forms submitted, each 1099 form details specific types of income paid to individuals or entities. For example, Form 1099-MISC reports payments made to independent contractors, while Form 1099-INT covers interest income. Both forms help ensure that the IRS receives accurate information regarding income earned by taxpayers.

Form W-2 is another document that shares similarities with Form 1096. Both forms are used by employers to report income to the IRS. While Form 1096 summarizes information for various 1099 forms, Form W-2 provides a detailed account of wages, tips, and other compensation paid to employees. Employers must submit Form W-2 to report withholdings for Social Security and Medicare taxes, making it essential for accurate tax reporting for employees.

Form 941 is also comparable to Form 1096, as both are used for reporting purposes to the IRS. Form 941 is specifically for employers to report payroll taxes withheld from employees’ wages. While Form 1096 summarizes the information from various 1099 forms, Form 941 details the amounts withheld for federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare. Both forms play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with tax obligations.

Form 1042-S is similar to Form 1096 in that it reports income paid to foreign persons. While Form 1096 summarizes the information from various 1099 forms, Form 1042-S specifically details income subject to withholding tax for non-resident aliens. It is essential for U.S. entities making payments to foreign individuals or companies to accurately report this information to the IRS, ensuring proper tax compliance.

Finally, Form 5500 is another document that relates to Form 1096 through its reporting nature. Both forms require detailed information to be submitted to the IRS, but they serve different purposes. Form 5500 is used to report information about employee benefit plans, while Form 1096 summarizes information for various 1099 forms. Both forms are important for ensuring transparency and compliance with federal regulations, although they pertain to different aspects of financial reporting.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the IRS 1096 form, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below are six recommendations that outline what you should and shouldn't do.

  • Do ensure that all information is accurate and complete.
  • Do use black ink to fill out the form for clarity.
  • Do double-check the totals of the accompanying forms.
  • Do file the form by the deadline to avoid penalties.
  • Don't forget to sign the form before submission.
  • Don't use correction fluid or tape on the form.

Following these guidelines can help streamline the filing process and minimize errors. Proper completion of the IRS 1096 form is essential for accurate reporting of information returns.

Misconceptions

The IRS Form 1096 is an important document, but many people hold misconceptions about it. Here are five common misunderstandings:

  • Form 1096 is only for businesses. Many individuals believe that only businesses need to file Form 1096. In reality, anyone who files certain information returns, such as Forms 1099, may need to submit this form.
  • Form 1096 is the same as Form 1099. Some people confuse Form 1096 with Form 1099. While Form 1096 serves as a summary for the information returns, Form 1099 is used to report various types of income. They serve different purposes.
  • You can file Form 1096 electronically. Many assume that Form 1096 can be filed electronically. However, this form must be submitted on paper when filing information returns by mail. Electronic filing is not an option for Form 1096.
  • Form 1096 is only due at tax time. Some individuals think that Form 1096 is only relevant during tax season. In fact, it is due on the same date as the information returns it summarizes, which may vary based on the specific forms.
  • Filing Form 1096 is optional. There is a misconception that filing Form 1096 is optional if you are submitting information returns. This is incorrect. If you are required to file an information return by mail, you must also file Form 1096.

Key takeaways

The IRS 1096 form is an important document for anyone who files information returns to the IRS. Below are key takeaways to consider when filling out and using this form.

  • Purpose: The 1096 form serves as a summary of the information returns you are submitting, such as 1099s or W-2s.
  • Filing Requirement: You must file a 1096 form if you are submitting paper copies of certain information returns.
  • Deadline: The deadline for filing the 1096 form is typically the same as the deadline for the associated information returns.
  • Correct Information: Ensure that all information on the form is accurate, including your name, address, and the total number of forms submitted.
  • Signature: The form must be signed by the person responsible for filing the returns or an authorized agent.
  • Keep Copies: Retain copies of the 1096 form and any attached information returns for your records.
  • Electronic Filing: If you file electronically, you do not need to submit a 1096 form, as the system will handle the summary automatically.

Understanding these key points can help ensure compliance and streamline the filing process.