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The Global Insight

What if I forgot to include a Form 1099 on my taxes?

Author

James Williams

Updated on March 09, 2026

Generally, you can expect the IRS to impose a late payment penalty of 0.5 percent per month or partial month that late taxes remain unpaid. If the 1099 income you forget to include on your return results in a substantial understatement of your tax bill, the penalty increases to 20 percent, which accrues immediately.

What happens if I forgot to file my 2018 taxes?

If a return is filed more than 60 days after the April due date, the minimum penalty is either $210 or 100 percent of the unpaid tax, whichever is less. Therefore, if the tax due is $210 or less, the penalty is equal to the tax amount due. If the tax due is more than $210, the penalty is at least $210.

Do you have to include 1099 with tax return?

Since the IRS considers any 1099 payment as taxable income, you are required to report your 1099 payment on your tax return. For example, if you earned less than $600 as an independent contractor, the payer does not have to send you a 1099-MISC, but you still have to report the amount as self-employment income.

Will the IRS reject my return if I forgot a 1099?

If you forgot to file a Form 1099 MISC (or any other form in the 1099 series), you do not need to file an amended tax return; in fact, you may not have to do anything. You can contact the IRS if you’re unsure.

Does IRS check every return?

The IRS does check each and every tax return that is filed. If there are any discrepancies, you will be notified through the mail.

Can I still file my 2018 taxes and get a refund?

The IRS can also hold refund checks when the two subsequent annual returns are missing. That means you should file returns for 2018 and 2019 as soon as possible. For the 2018 tax year, with a filing deadline in April of 2019, the three-year grace period ends April 15, 2022.

What happens if I Forget to add a 1099-R on my tax return?

If you forget to add a 1099-R tax form or some other part of your tax return, you can file an amended return using IRS form 1040X with the correct information. If you are due a refund because of the change, you must file the amendment within three years or you will forfeit your right to the funds.

What to do if you receive a 1099 form?

If you receive a 1099, you’re generally required to transfer that information to your tax return when you file. Follow the instructions on your tax return form or in your tax preparation software, or work with your tax preparer to transfer the information to the right place on your return.

What kind of income is spelled out on 1099?

People receiving dividend payments from stocks or other investments get Form 1099-DIV. Interest income from bank accounts and other sources is spelled out on Form 1099-INT. People receiving distributions from retirement plans, IRAs, pensions and annuities generally receive Form 1099-R.