1099-K vs 1099-NEC – what IRS documents say
IRS documents describe Form 1099-K and Form 1099-NEC as two different information returns used to report payments, depending on how payments are processed and who makes the payment.
What IRS Documents Describe
Form 1099-KIRS instructions describe Form 1099-K as an information return used by payment settlement entities to report the gross amount of certain payment transactions. These transactions generally involve:
  • Payment card transactions (such as credit or debit cards)
  • Third-party network transactions processed through payment apps or online marketplaces
IRS documents explain that Form 1099-K reports gross payment amounts processed through a platform, not net income. The reporting requirements and thresholds for Form 1099-K are described in the Instructions for Form 1099-K and may change by tax year.
Form 1099-NEC:
IRS guidance describes Form 1099-NEC as an information return used to report nonemployee compensation. This generally refers to payments made directly to individuals who are not employees, such as independent contractors or other service providers.
IRS documents explain that Form 1099-NEC is filed by the person or business that pays for services, rather than by a payment processor or platform. The form reports compensation paid for services performed in the course of a trade or business, subject to reporting rules described in IRS instructions.
Key Differences Described in IRS Guidance
IRS documents distinguish the two forms based on:
  • Who issues the form
  • Type of payments reported
  • Purpose of reporting
IRS publications explain that the presence of one form versus the other depends on how the payment is made, not on the type of work alone.
Where to Find Details
  • Instructions for Form 1099-K
  • Instructions for Form 1099-NEC
  • IRS Publication 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income
  • IRS General Instructions for Certain Information Returns
  • IRS.gov/1099K and IRS.gov/1099NEC
Disclaimer (REQUIRED – VERBATIM)
“This information is based on official IRS publications and is provided for educational purposes only. It is not tax or legal advice. Tax situations vary, and individuals should consult the IRS or a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to their circumstances.”
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Mark Moran
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1099-K vs 1099-NEC – what IRS documents say
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