What is IRIS?
The Information Returns Intake System (IRIS) is a newly launched website by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) designed to make the process of filing 1099 forms easier and faster. The primary goals of developing IRIS include reducing the number of paper form 1099 submissions, providing a user-friendly 1099 electronic filing option, enhancing the accuracy of forms being filed, and ensuring faster acknowledgment of submissions. Please remember that starting in 2024, businesses that file 10 or more 1099 tax forms will be required to use an electronic system, such as the twin systems Information Returns Intake System (IRIS) or Filing Information Returns Electronically (FIRE). Our W2 Mate® (W2 1099 Software) supports both IRIS and FIRE, leaving the choice to the users to decide which system better aligns with their needs.
IRIS Ways of Data Entry:
- Manual Data Entry: The user can input the information directly into the IRIS system by manually typing the data fields of each 1099 form. For example, the user would type the recipient’s name, tax ID and none-employee-compensation dollar amount. This is straightforward and may be very time-consuming; besides, it is subject to human errors.
- CSV File Import: The user will be able to import 1099 data from a specially formatted CSV file (CSV stands for comma separate value file). This is a bulk data transfer method and can save time in terms of manual entry and minimizing potential mistakes. The IRIS system provides templates for each type of 1099 form (for example 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, 1099-INT and so on).
Our 1099-NEC Software creates CSV files ready for upload to IRIS. Since IRIS allows up to 100 forms per upload, our software automatically creates multiple files if a user is filing more than 100 tax forms. This feature streamlines bulk filing and makes the process much faster. Our software also supports importing data from various sources, such as Intuit QuickBooks, Sage 50, Microsoft Dynamics, and Payroll Mate. This multi-sourced compatibility will enable users to easily use the IRIS system without manual data reformatting or re-typing, reducing the chances of errors, saving so much precious time during the process of tax filings.
To Use IRIS:
- Start by visiting the IRIS portal to create an account, or log in if you already have one. Don’t forget to complete the IRIS Application for Transmitter Control Code (TCC) and allow enough time for processing.
- Gather 1099 forms data such as payer information, recipient name, recipient Tax ID and money fields.
- Enter your 1099 tax forms data manually or import a CSV file. Review all 1099 forms to make sure all information is accurate and complete. Please remember to use the FAQ boxes available throughout the portal for guidance on specific form instructions and filing requirements. When entering data manually, complete all required fields marked with an asterisk (*). Use the Next or Back buttons within the IRIS portal, not your browser’s back button.
- Once you’ve reviewed everything, finalize your upload. Remember to check your submission status by going to the ‘View Submitted Forms’ section for confirmation of acceptance or any errors indicated by the IRS. Acknowledgments are usually available within 24-48 hours.
How to contact the IRS if you have Questions?
If you have questions about the IRIS portal, you can contact the IRS Help Desk through the following methods:
- Toll-free phone: 866-937-4130
- International phone: 470-769-5100
- TTY/TDD: The IRS welcomes calls via relay service for deaf or hard of hearing taxpayers
The Help Desk is available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time. When calling, be sure to listen to all options before making your selection.