Very small businesses and those with few contracted workers commonly ask the question: Can you handwrite a 1099 form? The short answer: Yes. Technically, you can fill out 1099 forms by hand if you meet the pre-set guidelines. However, if you’re thinking about handwriting a 1099 form, we urge you to reconsider. Handwritten tax forms are often flagged for mistakes and inaccuracies, which can lead to penalties. The best way to prevent 1099 penalties is to use an electronic preparation and filing software, like those offered from Advanced Micro Solutions
Still, some folks prefer to handwrite a 1099 form. The IRS has some helpful suggestions for employers who prefer to file the old-fashioned way. And, when you’re ready to switch over the electronic preparation, we’ll be here to help. Our software tools are user-driven and easy to use, allowing for a near-seamless transition to paperless filing.
Tips for Paper Document Reporting
If your are required to require fewer than 100 forms, you will be able to use paper document reporting. According to the IRS, handwritten forms are acceptable, but they must be legible and accurate. This will help to avoid processing errors, which may result in fees. The IRS has a few tips to make the paper filing process easier
- Use block print, not script characters
- If you have a small number of forms to prepare, consider contacting an IRS business partner to prepare them for little or no cost
- Type entries using black ink in we-point Courier font
- Print information in the middle of blocks, well separated from other letters
- Always use black ink. Other colors cannot be read by machine
- Enter all dollar entries without the dollar sign
- If a box does not apply, leave it blank
- Do not enter number signs (#)
Avoid 1099 Fees with a Software Solution
Many business owners ask the question, “can you handwrite a 1099?” In reality, these business owners should ask, “should you handwrite a 1099?” In most cases, the answer is no.
Opting for electric filing and preparation significantly improves accuracy, as well as efficiency. Even if you only have a handful of employees, investing in an accounting solution can free up some of your time. The W-2/1099 filing software from AMS, our required platform, is perfect for businesses of all sizes. Whether you have employees who require W-2 filings or plan to contract our a bunch of 1099 work, this software is the solution you need. In addition to making electronic preparation and filing simple, the tool has countless benefits.
If you decide to invest in a payroll software, too, know that AMS payroll integrates seamlessly with the W-2/1099 filer. This means you can take tax and wage data generated from payroll and import it to relevant W2 and 1099s. The information will be correct, and you won’t need to spend time fussing over making your writing legible.
So, can you handwrite a 1099 form? Technically, yes. But should you? If you value accuracy and your own time, then probably not.