How do I file 1099s online without buying software?

You can file 1099s online without buying software in a few ways, depending on how many forms you need and whether you want to do it directly with the IRS or through a free/cheap e-file service.

1) Use the IRS free Filing Information Returns Electronically (FIRE) system

The IRS offers an online system called FIRE for filing information returns like 1099s.

What to know:

• It’s free
• Best if you’re filing multiple 1099s
• It’s more technical than consumer software
• You need to register and get approved before filing
• You must submit in the required IRS electronic format

Good for:

• Businesses filing 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, 1099-INT, etc.
• Employers or accounting staff comfortable with IRS formatting

Not ideal if:

• You want a simple step-by-step web form
• You only have a handful of forms and want an easy UI

2) Use the IRS Information Returns Intake System (IRIS)

The IRS also has IRIS, a newer online portal for filing many 1099 forms.

Benefits:

• Free
• Web-based
• Designed to be easier than FIRE
• Lets you manually enter forms online or upload them
• Provides a way to file and correct certain forms

Commonly supported forms:

• 1099-NEC
• 1099-MISC
• 1099-INT
• 1099-DIV
• 1099-K
• 1099-R
• More forms may be supported over time

Best for:

• Small businesses filing a manageable number of 1099s
• People who want to avoid paid software

Requirements:

• You’ll need an IRS account/login
• You may need to create an IRIS TCC or follow IRS access steps depending on how you file

3) Use free filing through a tax prep or e-file provider

Some providers offer free 1099 filing for a limited number of forms, or if you only need the recipient copies generated.

Watch for:

• “Free” may only cover:
  • a small number of forms
  • recipient copies, not IRS filing
  • basic forms only
• Some charge for state filing or e-delivery

Useful if:

• You want a more user-friendly interface than IRS systems
• You have just a few forms

4) File paper forms instead

If you truly want to avoid software and online systems, you can still file paper 1099s with the IRS.

But:

• Paper filing usually has a lower threshold before electronic filing is required
• It’s slower and more error-prone
• You still need to mail recipient copies and IRS copies

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Important filing note

For many 1099s, you must also provide the recipient copy by the IRS deadline, and some forms have additional state filing requirements.

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My recommendation

• 1–10 forms: try IRS IRIS or a free online e-file provider
• Lots of forms / technical comfort: use IRS FIRE
• Only a couple forms and no rush: paper filing is possible, but online is usually better

If you want, I can give you:

1. the exact IRS website links,
2. a step-by-step guide for IRIS, or
3. help choosing the best option based on how many 1099s you have and which type.