If 2026 will be your first time meeting IRS e-file requirements as a small business, there is no need to worry or feel undue stress. There is a much greater emphasis on electronic filing IRS tax forms now than in previous years. The broad benefits of e-filing include:
- Increased speed
- Greater accuracy
- Fewer and/or less severe penalties
If your business files 10 or more information returns, you must electronically file them.
The good news is, it is possible and relatively straightforward to electronically file small business forms on a budget. Advanced Micro Solutions’ 1099-etc E-Filer software is the most affordable option on the market. It operates as an extension of our base W-2/1099 Forms Filer program for users in 50 states, plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
Choose from our two e-filing solutions, including:
- E-File Direct (add-on module)
- E-File Services (via third-party vendor)
What are the IRS Deadlines for Small Business E-Filing Requirements?
You may already be familiar with certain IRS tax form deadlines if you have worked previously with an accountant, in-house or otherwise. Whether you know the dates or they are all entirely new to you, make sure that you keep them accessible throughout the year.
- Form W-2: January 31
- Form 1099-NEC: January 31
- Form 1099-MISC (paper): March 1
- Form 1099-MISC (electronic): March 31
- Quarterly 941 forms: End of the month following the end of a quarter (April, July, October, January)
Accruing IRS tax form penalties is not a habit that you want to become accustomed to making with your business’s taxes. There are all sorts of reasons why your business might encounter penalties if you do not have comprehensive software as you enter the next tax season.
- Missing or ignoring form deadlines
- Incorrect information returns
- Filing paper returns when e-filing is mandated
There is a less than 1% error rate for e-filed returns compared to 21% for paper returns.
Reducing the potential error rate when you meet your 1099 requirements as a small business is possible when you use trustworthy software. As a small business, we understand how our small business users not only need that affordable option but also need strong customer tech support.
Speaking with our team of experts means that you will make contact with a live representative who is familiar with each of our 1099-etc software products.
What are the Benefits of E-Filing 1099s Aside From Compliance?
Whether you electronically file your own tax forms or hire a professional to do it for you, it is best to eliminate manual tax filing all-together. Using an e-filing solution provides businesses of any size and industry with:
- Automated error checks
- Safe and secure data submissions
- Proof of filing submissions
- Smoother tax seasons for in-house workers with other tasks
- Money-saving on mailing costs and additional resources
- Quicker processing and refunds
The IRS issues most refunds within 21 days for taxpayers who file electronically and select the direct deposit option.
How Can I Tell If My New Software Meets IRS E-File Requirements?
Speaking with a prospective payroll provider is best if done before you make any purchases. A program like AMS Payroll allows its users to enter all payroll and non-employee compensation, plus certain other 1099 information, by check throughout the year.
Questions that you should also consider asking a payroll provider include:
- Do you support electronic filing for specific state forms?
- Is pricing a fixed rate or predictable?
- Does the software have any hidden fees and upsells?
- Is software scalable for a growing business with multiple workers and/or clients?
- Will I have any trouble e-filing federal forms?
Lower tech small businesses that are looking for affordability and simplicity should have just as much security as a larger company. A good way to make sure that a program is the right fit for your business is to test out a free trial or demo.
Get Started with AMS Software
Download our free 1099-etc Demo software today to see how you can create a full-accounting suite of tools for your small business. Our software users have the option to build off our main program with six optional add-on modules. These are:
- E-File
- AMS Payroll
- Software Generated Forms
- Forms Filer Plus
- 1042-S Filer
- Affordable Care Act Filer
If you use either of our e-file solutions, it is important to know how they differ from one another.
E-File Direct
- Flat fee
- Unlimited number of form filings
- Users can verify, view, and print files
E-File Services
- Volume pricing (fee per form)
- Forms are e-filed through a third-party vendor
- Different service levels available