Fill out Form 1096 (Annual Summary and Transmittal of U.S. Information Returns) online
Form 1096 is the transmittal form used to summarize and submit paper copies of information returns (such as 1099, 1098, W-2G, and other forms) to the IRS. It serves as a cover sheet that accompanies a batch of paper-filed information returns.
How to fill out Form 1096 (Annual Summary and Transmittal of U.S. Information Returns)
Enter filer information
Fill in the filer's name, address, phone number, and TIN (EIN or SSN) in the top section of the form. Enter an email address and contact person name.
Identify the type of return
Check the appropriate box to indicate which type of information return you are transmitting (e.g., 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, 1098, W-2G). Only one type of return per Form 1096.
Enter totals
In Box 3, enter the total number of forms being transmitted. In Box 4, enter the total of any federal income tax withheld reported on the forms. In Box 5, enter the total dollar amount reported on all the attached forms.
Sign and mail
Sign and date the form. Mail the completed Form 1096 along with Copy A of the information returns to the IRS service center address listed in the instructions. Keep a copy for your records.
About Form 1096 (Annual Summary and Transmittal of U.S. Information Returns)
Who needs this form
Any filer who submits paper information returns to the IRS must include a Form 1096 as a transmittal summary. Filers who submit information returns electronically do not need to file Form 1096. A separate Form 1096 is required for each type of information return.
Where to submit
Mail to the IRS service center address listed in the Form 1096 instructions along with the accompanying paper information returns. The filing deadline matches the deadline for the information returns being transmitted.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-24
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing Form 1096 when submitting information returns electronically (it is only for paper filings)
- Combining different types of information returns under a single Form 1096 (each form type needs its own 1096)
- Not matching the totals on Form 1096 with the individual information returns being transmitted
- Using a photocopied Form 1096 instead of the official red-ink scannable version from the IRS
Frequently asked questions
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Do I need to file Form 1096 if I e-file my information returns?
No. Form 1096 is only required as a transmittal for paper-filed information returns. If you file your 1099s, 1098s, or other information returns electronically through the IRS FIRE system or an approved e-file provider, you do not need to submit a Form 1096.
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