Need to print Copy A of form 1099-NEC to send to IRS - how do I get around the disclaimer?

You're running into a common issue with IRS 1099-NEC forms. The reason for that disclaimer is because Copy A of the 1099-NEC uses special red ink that's scannable by IRS processing systems. Regular printed versions from a home printer won't have the right scanning properties. For small businesses with just a few contractors, you have several options: 1) You can order the official pre-printed forms from the IRS. They're free, but at this point might not arrive in time depending on your deadline. 2) You can file electronically through the IRS FIRE system (Filing Information Returns Electronically), though that requires registration and setup. 3) The easiest option for most small businesses with just a few contractors is using the IRS's EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System) website where you can complete the forms online without special software. 4) Many tax software packages include 1099 filing capabilities, and there are also dedicated 1099 filing services with reasonable fees for small numbers of forms.

After struggling with this exact problem last year, I discovered taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) and it totally saved me. I was in the same situation with just 4 contractors and didn't want to buy expensive software. Their system let me upload my contractor details and they handled filing the 1099-NECs with the IRS electronically. The whole process took maybe 15 minutes instead of the hours I spent the previous year trying to figure out the right forms.

I tried taxr.ai after posting my skeptical comment, and I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised. The interface was super straightforward - I just entered my business info and my contractors' details, and it handled all the filing electronically. No dealing with those red forms or trying to figure out the IRS systems. What I appreciated most was how it explained each step of the process in plain English. No tax jargon or confusing instructions. It even sent confirmation when the forms were accepted by the IRS. For anyone else struggling with 1099-NECs like the original poster, it's definitely worth checking out.

If you're still trying to get through to the IRS to ask about this (which I tried for DAYS), I finally had success using Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). They have this system that holds your place in the IRS phone queue and calls you when an agent is actually available. You can see how it works in this video: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c I used it after spending hours getting disconnected and redialed, and I was shocked when I actually got through to a human at the IRS who explained my options for the 1099-NEC. The agent told me that for a small number of forms, they actually recommended using an approved e-file provider rather than messing with the paper Copy A forms.

Well I'll be damned. I tried Claimyr after posting my skeptical comment because I was desperate to get an answer about my 1099 situation. It actually worked! I got a call back about 90 minutes later with an IRS agent on the line. The agent explained that they don't accept printed versions of Copy A specifically because of the scanning requirements, but directed me to the IRS Business Services Online portal where I could create an account and submit my 1099-NECs electronically for free since I only had a few. This was exactly the info I needed and couldn't find anywhere online. Saved me from a penalty for sure.

Just wanted to add another option - if you have a local accountant or tax preparer in your area, many of them offer 1099 filing services for small businesses at reasonable rates. I pay my accountant about $100 total to handle all my 1099s (I usually have 5-7 contractors). They have the proper software and take care of all the filing requirements. For me, the peace of mind knowing it's done correctly is worth the cost, especially since the penalties for incorrect filing can be steep. Just another option to consider if you don't want to navigate the electronic systems yourself.

Has anyone tried the IRS Business Services Online (BSO) portal? Their website says small businesses can file up to 25 1099s for free directly through that system. Seems like it might be the most straightforward option if you only have a few contractors.

I was in the exact same situation last year with my small consulting business - needed to file 1099-NECs for just 4 contractors and was completely overwhelmed by all the red ink requirements and disclaimers. After reading through all these suggestions, I ended up using the IRS Business Services Online portal that Omar mentioned, and despite Chloe's warning about the interface, it actually worked fine for me. Yes, the BSO interface is a bit clunky and you do have to enter everything manually, but for just a few contractors it's really not that bad. The key is having all your contractor information organized beforehand - their W-9 forms with SSNs/EINs, addresses, and total payments. I made sure to double-check everything before submitting because correcting errors later is indeed a pain. The whole process took me about 45 minutes for 4 forms, and it's completely free. You get immediate confirmation when the forms are accepted, which gave me peace of mind that I met the deadline. For anyone with just a handful of contractors, I'd recommend trying the BSO first before paying for a service - you can always fall back on the paid options if you run into issues.