IRS Form 1096
Summarize and transmit paper information returns to the IRS.
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About IRS Form 1096
Form 1096, Annual Summary and Transmittal of US Information Returns, is the cover sheet that goes with paper information returns such as the 1099 series when you mail them to the IRS. It totals the forms in the batch so the IRS can process them. You do not use it when you file electronically.
This page is a general guide and a fillable helper, not tax advice. Always download and file the current official form from the IRS at https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1096 and confirm the fields match. The copy filed with the IRS is a scannable form, so follow the IRS instructions for filing.
Who needs to complete it
- Businesses and payers mailing paper 1099 or other information returns to the IRS.
- Filers who need a transmittal summary for each type of information return they send.
- Payers not filing electronically who must total their paper returns.
- Anyone the IRS instructions direct to submit Form 1096 with paper returns.
How to fill out IRS Form 1096
- 1Enter the filer name, address, and contact details.
- 2Enter the employer identification number or Social Security number of the filer.
- 3Enter the total number of forms you are transmitting with this 1096.
- 4Enter the total federal income tax withheld reported on those forms.
- 5Enter the total amount reported on the forms you are transmitting.
- 6Mark the single box that identifies which type of information return this 1096 covers.
- 7Sign and date the transmittal.
- 8Mail the 1096 with its batch of paper forms to the IRS using the official scannable form and the address in the current instructions.
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Frequently asked questions
When do I need Form 1096?
You generally need it when you mail paper information returns such as the 1099 series to the IRS. You do not use it when you file those returns electronically. This is a general guide, not tax advice.
Do I use one 1096 for all my forms?
You use a separate Form 1096 for each type of information return you transmit on paper. The instructions explain how to group the forms.
Can I print this to file with the IRS?
No. The copy you file with the IRS must be the official scannable version. Use the IRS approved filing methods in the current instructions.
Is this the official IRS form?
This is a fillable helper for understanding the fields. Always download and file the current official form from the IRS at https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1096 and confirm the fields match.