What Every Solopreneur Needs to Know About 1099s (Before January Ends)
Jan 20, 2026
You didn’t start your business to stress about tax forms. But if you paid contractors in 2025, there’s one important task you can’t ignore: sending 1099s.
Here’s the good news: it’s not as complicated as it sounds. And if it is already stressing you out, that’s exactly why support exists.
This post will walk you through what 1099s are, who needs one, what you need to file them correctly, and why January 31st matters. We’ll keep it simple, calm, and clear — so you can breathe a little easier.
What Is a 1099-NEC?
A 1099-NEC is an IRS form used to report non-employee compensation. In plain English? If you paid someone who isn’t your employee (like a virtual assistant, business coach, social media manager) $600 or more during the year, you may need to send them this form.
It lets the IRS know who you paid, how much, and for what.
Do You Need to Send 1099s? (A Quick Checklist)
If you answer yes to all the following, you probably need to send a 1099:
- You paid $600 or more in 2025 (this is going up to $2,000 for next year)
- To a person or business (not a corporation)
- For services (not products)
- Via cash, check, or bank transfer (NOT Credit Card, PayPal, or platform like Kajabi)
Quick tip: Payments made via third-party platforms like PayPal or Stripe are usually reported by those platforms already.
What You Need to File 1099s Correctly
You’ll need the following details for each contractor:
- Legal name or business name
- Address
- EIN or SSN
- Total amount you paid them
You collect this info via Form W-9, which should be requested before you start working with a contractor — but it’s not too late to follow up now.
Where to Find the 1099-NEC Form & How to File It
You can order official 1099-NEC forms for free from the IRS website. They’ll mail you physical copies — you can’t just print and mail a PDF version, because the IRS requires scannable forms.
Alternatively, you can file 1099s electronically using platforms like:
- Tax1099 (tax1099.com)
- Track1099 (track1099.com)
- Intuit QuickBooks (if you already use it)
- Your payroll software (like Gusto or ADP)
These platforms will send forms to your contractors and file with the IRS.
The January 31st Deadline (And Why It Matters)
1099s must be sent to contractors and filed with the IRS by January 31st, 2026.
Missing the deadline can result in:
- IRS penalties (starting at $60 per form)
- Contractors frustrated that you forgot
- More mental load you don’t need
And let’s be honest: it’s one of those tasks that’s easy to postpone... until suddenly it’s February and you’re scrambling.
Why Many CEO Mamas Miss This (And How to Avoid It)
You’re not lazy. You’re not irresponsible.
You’re juggling a lot. Between clients, kids, laundry, launches, and trying to remember to drink water, this kind of backend admin often slips through the cracks.
And the truth? That’s exactly why support matters.
As a bookkeeper, this is what I handle for you. Quietly. Accurately. On time. Without you needing to carry it all in your head.
Want This Off Your Plate Next Year? I’ve Got You.
If you’re feeling the pressure of tax season already… or you’re not even sure who you paid and how much… that’s a sign it might be time to delegate.
My clients don’t worry about 1099s because their books are clean, up to date, and calmly managed all year round.
If you want that kind of peace of mind for 2026, let’s chat. I offer monthly bookkeeping that’s life-first, judgment-free, and designed specifically for CEO mamas like you.
Because the backend of your business shouldn’t be another source of stress. It should be handled.
Final Takeaway
1099s are a simple form with a big responsibility. But you don’t have to carry it all alone. Whether you DIY it this year or ask for help next time, the goal is the same: a business that supports your life, not competes with it.
You’ve got enough on your plate. Let your systems (and support team) carry some of it.
Until Next Time,
Kiera
