What Is IRS Form 1096?
IRS Form 1096 is a summary transmittal form that accompanies paper-filed information returns such as Forms 1097, 1098, 1099, 5498, and W-2G.
Each different type of form you paper file requires its own 1096. For example, if you file:
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Six 1099-MISC forms, and
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One 3922 form,
you must file two separate 1096s—one for the 1099-MISC and one for the 3922.
👉 Simplify the process with our 1096 software.
Information Required on IRS Form 1096
At the top of the form, you’ll enter the:
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Filer’s name, address, and contact details (phone, email, fax if available).
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Name of person to contact regarding the filing.
Then, complete the following boxes:
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Box 1 & 2: Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN). Only fill out one—do not enter both.
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Box 3: Total number of forms being submitted with this 1096. Example: If filing three 1098 forms, enter “3.”
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Box 4: Total federal income tax withheld across all submitted forms.
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Box 5: Aggregate amounts from the forms being transmitted. This includes amounts from specific boxes across multiple forms such as 1099-INT, 1099-MISC, 1099-DIV, and others.
Supported Forms
Form 1096 is used to transmit paper copies of:
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1097-BTC (Boxes 1 & 2)
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1098 series (Boxes 1 & 2)
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1099 series (various boxes depending on form type)
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5498 series
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W-2G (Box 1)
A full breakdown of box references is provided in the IRS instructions.
Filing Deadlines
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Copy A of Form 1096 (with attached forms) must be filed with the IRS by:
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February 28 (paper filing), or
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March 31 (e-file).
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👉 Note: If you are required to file 10 or more forms, you must file electronically instead of using paper 1096.
How 1099fire Can Help
Preparing and filing Form 1096 manually can be tedious, especially when handling multiple form types. 1099fire makes it easy:
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Form 1096 software for quick preparation.
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Automatically calculates totals across all forms.
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Supports all major 1099, 1098, 5498, and W-2G filings.
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Provides e-file services so you can skip paper transmittals.
Visit 1099fire.com to see how we can simplify your IRS reporting.
Key Takeaways
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IRS Form 1096 is a summary sheet for transmitting paper-filed information returns.
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A separate 1096 is required for each type of return filed.
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Filing deadlines: February 28 (paper), March 31 (e-file).
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E-filing is mandatory for 10+ forms.
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1099fire software streamlines preparation, filing, and compliance.