Definition
IRS documents describe Form 1099-K as an information return used to report certain payment transactions. It is issued by payment settlement entities, such as payment card companies and third-party network organizations, to report payments processed through their systems.
What IRS Documents Describe
IRS publications and instructions explain that Form 1099-K is associated with payments processed through payment cards and third-party settlement networks, including online payment platforms and marketplaces. The form reports the gross amount of reportable payment transactions processed during a calendar year.
IRS documents describe that a Form 1099-K may be issued when payment settlement entities process transactions for goods or services on behalf of a payee. The circumstances under which a Form 1099-K is issued can vary by tax year, transaction type, and reporting requirements in effect for that year.
IRS guidance also explains that Form 1099-K may sometimes include amounts that are not taxable income, such as personal reimbursements or sales of personal items at a loss. IRS publications discuss how reported amounts should be reviewed and considered together with other tax records when determining how transactions are treated for tax purposes.
IRS documents do not determine why a specific individual received a Form 1099-K, but instead describe the reporting systems and conditions under which payment settlement entities issue the form.
Where to Find Details
- Instructions for Form 1099-K
- IRS Publication 525, Taxable and Nontaxable Income
- Instructions for Schedule 1 (Form 1040)
- Instructions for Schedule C (Form 1040)
- IRS.gov/1099K resources and FAQs
Disclaimer
“This information is based on official IRS publications and is provided for educational purposes only. It is not tax or legal advice. Tax situations vary, and individuals should consult the IRS or a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to their circumstances.”