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Outline

The IRS 1099-C form plays a crucial role in the financial landscape for individuals and businesses alike. It is primarily used to report the cancellation of debt, which can occur when a lender forgives a loan or settles a debt for less than the amount owed. When this happens, the borrower may face tax implications, as the forgiven amount is often considered taxable income. This form is issued by the lender to both the borrower and the IRS, ensuring transparency in financial dealings. It typically includes important details such as the amount of debt canceled, the date of cancellation, and the reason for the cancellation. Understanding the 1099-C form is essential for anyone who has had a debt forgiven, as it can significantly impact tax returns and financial planning. Properly reporting this information helps prevent issues with the IRS and ensures compliance with tax regulations.

Sample - IRS 1099-C Form

Attention:

Copy A of this form is provided for informational purposes only. Copy A appears in red, similar to the official IRS form. The official printed version of Copy A of this IRS form is scannable, but the online version of it, printed from this website, is not. Do not print and file copy A downloaded from this website; a penalty may be imposed for filing with the IRS information return forms that can’t be scanned. See part O in the current General Instructions for Certain Information Returns, available at IRS.gov/Form1099, for more information about penalties.

Please note that Copy B and other copies of this form, which appear in black, may be downloaded and printed and used to satisfy the requirement to provide the information to the recipient.

If you have 10 or more information returns to file, you may be required to file e-file. Go to IRS.gov/InfoReturn for e-file options.

If you have fewer than 10 information returns to file, we strongly encourage you to e-file. If you want to file them on paper, you can place an order for the official IRS information returns, which include a scannable Copy A for filing with the IRS and all other applicable copies of the form, at IRS.gov/EmployerForms. We’ll mail you the forms you request and their instructions, as well as any publications you may order.

See Publications 1141, 1167, and 1179 for more information about printing these forms.

8585

VOID

CORRECTED

 

 

 

 

 

CREDITOR’S name, street address, city or town, state or province, country,

1 Date of identifiable event

OMB No. 1545-1424

 

 

ZIP or foreign postal code, and telephone no.

 

 

Form 1099-C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cancellation

 

 

 

2 Amount of debt discharged

 

 

 

 

$

(Rev. April 2025)

 

of Debt

 

 

 

3 Interest, if included in box 2

For calendar year

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CREDITOR’S TIN

DEBTOR’S TIN

 

4 Debt description

 

 

 

 

Copy A

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For

DEBTOR’S name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Internal Revenue

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Service Center

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For filing information,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Privacy Act, and

Street address (including apt. no.)

 

 

5 Check here if the debtor was personally liable for

 

 

Paperwork Reduction

 

 

 

repayment of the debt

 

 

 

Act Notice, see the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code

 

 

 

 

 

General

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Instructions for

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certain Information

Account number (see instructions)

 

 

6 Identifiable event code

7 Fair market value of property

Returns.

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

www.irs.gov/Form1099

Form 1099-C (Rev. 4-2025)

Cat. No. 26280W

 

www.irs.gov/Form1099C

Department of the Treasury - Internal Revenue Service

Do Not Cut or Separate Forms on This Page — Do Not Cut or Separate Forms on This Page

CORRECTED (if checked)

CREDITOR’S name, street address, city or town, state or province, country,

1 Date of identifiable event

OMB No. 1545-1424

 

 

 

 

ZIP or foreign postal code, and telephone no.

 

Form 1099-C

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cancellation

 

 

2 Amount of debt discharged

 

 

 

 

 

$

(Rev. April 2025)

 

 

 

of Debt

 

 

3 Interest, if included in box 2

For calendar year

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CREDITOR’S TIN

DEBTOR’S TIN

4 Debt description

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copy B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Debtor

DEBTOR’S name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is important tax

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

information and is being

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

furnished to the IRS. If

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

you are required to file a

 

 

 

 

 

return, a negligence

Street address (including apt. no.)

 

5 If checked, the debtor was personally liable for

 

 

 

 

repayment of the debt

 

 

penalty or other

 

 

 

 

sanction may be

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

imposed on you if

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

taxable income results

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

from this transaction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and the IRS determines

Account number (see instructions)

 

6 Identifiable event code

7 Fair market value of property

that it has not been

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

reported.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form 1099-C (Rev. 4-2025)

(keep for your records)

www.irs.gov/Form1099C

Department of the Treasury - Internal Revenue Service

Instructions for Debtor

You received this form because a federal government agency or an applicable financial entity (a creditor) has discharged (canceled or forgiven) a debt you owed, or because an identifiable event has occurred that either is or is deemed to be a discharge of a debt of $600 or more. If a creditor has discharged a debt you owed, you are required to include the discharged amount in your income, even if it is less than $600, on the “Other income” line of your Form 1040 or

1040-SR. However, you may not have to include all of the canceled debt in your income. There are exceptions and exclusions, such as bankruptcy and insolvency. See Pub. 4681, available at www.irs.gov/Pub4681, for more details. If an identifiable event has occurred but the debt has not actually been discharged, then include any discharged debt in your income in the year that it is actually discharged, unless an exception or exclusion applies to you in that year.

Debtor’s taxpayer identification number (TIN). For your protection, this form may show only the last four digits of your TIN (social security number (SSN), individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN), adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN), or employer identification number (EIN)). However, the creditor has reported your complete TIN to the IRS.

Account number. May show an account or other unique number the creditor assigned to distinguish your account.

Box 1. Shows the date the earliest identifiable event occurred or, at the creditor’s discretion, the date of an actual discharge that occurred before an identifiable event. See the code in box 6.

Box 2. Shows the amount of debt either actually or deemed discharged. Note: If you don’t agree with the amount, contact your creditor.

Box 3. Shows interest if included in the debt reported in box 2. See Pub. 4681 to

see if you must include the interest in gross income.

Box 4. Shows a description of the debt. If box 7 is completed, box 4 also shows a description of the property.

Box 5. Shows whether you were personally liable for repayment of the debt when the debt was created or, if modified, at the time of the last modification. See Pub. 4681 for reporting instructions.

Box 6. Shows the reason your creditor has filed this form. The codes in this box are described in more detail in Pub. 4681. A—Bankruptcy; B—Other judicial debt relief; C—Statute of limitations or expiration of deficiency period; D— Foreclosure election; E—Debt relief from probate or similar proceeding; F—By agreement; G—Decision or policy to discontinue collection; or H—Other actual discharge before identifiable event.

Box 7. If, in the same calendar year, a foreclosure or abandonment of property occurred in connection with the cancellation of the debt, the fair market value (FMV) of the property will be shown, or you will receive a separate Form 1099-A. Generally, the gross foreclosure bid price is considered to be the FMV. For an abandonment or voluntary conveyance in lieu of foreclosure, the FMV is generally the appraised value of the property. You may have income or loss because of the acquisition or abandonment. See Pub. 4681 for information about foreclosures and abandonments. If the property was your main home, see Pub. 523, available at www.irs.gov/Pub523, to figure any taxable gain or ordinary income.

Future developments. For the latest information about developments related to Form 1099-C and its instructions, such as legislation enacted after they were published, go to www.irs.gov/Form1099C.

Free File Program. Go to www.irs.gov/FreeFile to see if you qualify for no-cost online federal tax preparation, e-filing, and direct deposit or payment options.

Form Information

Fact Name Description
Purpose The IRS 1099-C form is used to report the cancellation of debt. When a creditor forgives or cancels a debt of $600 or more, they must issue this form to the debtor and the IRS.
Who Receives It Debtors receive a copy of the 1099-C form from the creditor. This includes individuals, businesses, and organizations that have had a debt canceled.
Tax Implications The amount of canceled debt may be considered taxable income. Debtors should report this income on their tax returns, as it can affect their overall tax liability.
Filing Deadline Creditors must send out the 1099-C forms to debtors and the IRS by January 31st of the year following the debt cancellation.
State-Specific Forms Some states may require additional forms or have specific regulations regarding canceled debt. For example, California follows the California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 17144.5.
Exceptions There are exceptions to reporting canceled debts, such as certain student loans and debts discharged in bankruptcy. Debtors should consult a tax professional for guidance.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out IRS 1099-C

After completing the IRS 1099-C form, the next steps involve ensuring that all required copies are sent to the appropriate parties. This typically includes the IRS and the recipient of the cancellation of debt. It is essential to keep a copy for your records as well.

  1. Obtain a blank IRS 1099-C form. You can download it from the IRS website or request a physical copy.
  2. In the top left corner, enter your name, address, and taxpayer identification number (TIN).
  3. In the top right corner, provide the recipient's name, address, and TIN.
  4. In Box 1, indicate the amount of debt that was canceled.
  5. In Box 2, enter the date of the cancellation of debt.
  6. In Box 3, specify the type of debt that was canceled.
  7. In Box 4, if applicable, include any interest that was included in the canceled debt.
  8. In Box 5, provide the name of the creditor who canceled the debt.
  9. In Box 6, if applicable, enter any applicable bankruptcy code.
  10. In Box 7, indicate if the debt was discharged in a bankruptcy case.
  11. Review all entries for accuracy before submitting the form.
  12. Send Copy A to the IRS by the deadline. Keep Copy B for your records and send Copy C to the recipient.

Obtain Answers on IRS 1099-C

  1. What is the IRS 1099-C form?

    The IRS 1099-C form, known as the Cancellation of Debt, is a tax document that lenders must file when they cancel or forgive a debt of $600 or more. This form is important because it informs the IRS and the borrower that a debt has been canceled, which may be considered taxable income.

  2. Who receives a 1099-C form?

    If you have had a debt forgiven or canceled, such as credit card debt, a mortgage, or a student loan, you should receive a 1099-C form from your lender. This form is typically sent to individuals and sometimes to businesses if their debts have been canceled.

  3. When should I expect to receive my 1099-C form?

    Lenders are required to send out the 1099-C form by January 31 of the year following the cancellation of the debt. If you have not received it by mid-February, it is a good idea to contact your lender to ensure they have sent it.

  4. Do I have to report the canceled debt on my tax return?

    Yes, you generally need to report the amount shown on the 1099-C form as income on your tax return. The IRS treats canceled debt as income, which means it could affect your overall tax liability. However, there are exceptions, such as insolvency or certain types of student loans, where you may not need to report it.

  5. What should I do if I believe the information on my 1099-C is incorrect?

    If you find any discrepancies on your 1099-C form, contact your lender immediately. They can correct the information and issue a new form if necessary. It’s crucial to resolve these issues before you file your tax return to avoid complications.

  6. Can I dispute a 1099-C form?

    Disputing a 1099-C form is possible, but it typically involves proving that the debt was not canceled or that the amount is incorrect. Documentation such as payment records or correspondence with the lender can help support your case. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional for guidance on how to proceed.

  7. What happens if I don’t report the canceled debt?

    Failing to report canceled debt can lead to penalties and interest from the IRS. If the IRS discovers that you did not report this income, they may assess additional taxes, and you could face fines. It’s always best to be transparent and report all necessary income to avoid future issues.

  8. Are there any exceptions to reporting canceled debt?

    Yes, there are exceptions. If you were insolvent at the time the debt was canceled, you might not have to report the income. Insolvency means that your liabilities exceeded your assets. Other exceptions include certain types of student loans and debts discharged in bankruptcy. Consulting a tax professional can help clarify your specific situation.

  9. Where can I find more information about the 1099-C form?

    For more detailed information, you can visit the IRS website or consult with a tax professional. The IRS provides resources that explain how to handle the 1099-C form, including instructions for reporting canceled debt on your tax return.

Common mistakes

Filling out the IRS 1099-C form can be a daunting task, and many people make mistakes that can lead to complications. One common error is not including all necessary information. The form requires specific details such as the creditor's name, address, and taxpayer identification number. Omitting any of this information can cause delays in processing.

Another frequent mistake involves incorrect amounts. It's crucial to ensure that the amount of canceled debt reported on the form matches the amount the creditor has documented. Discrepancies can raise red flags and may result in further inquiries from the IRS.

Many individuals also fail to check the box indicating the type of debt being canceled. This box is essential because it informs the IRS about the nature of the transaction. If the box is left unchecked, it can lead to confusion and misclassification of the debt.

Some people neglect to sign and date the form. While it may seem like a minor detail, a missing signature can render the form invalid. Always remember to sign and date the document before submission.

Another mistake is not providing copies to the appropriate parties. The IRS requires that a copy of the 1099-C be sent to the debtor as well. Failing to do so can result in a lack of communication and potential misunderstandings regarding tax liabilities.

Inaccurate taxpayer identification numbers are also a common issue. It’s important to verify that the Social Security number or Employer Identification Number is correct. Errors in this area can lead to complications in the processing of the form.

Some individuals may misunderstand the reporting requirements for different types of canceled debt. For instance, not all canceled debts are taxable, and knowing the nuances can prevent unnecessary tax burdens. Properly understanding the implications of the canceled debt is vital.

Additionally, many people overlook the deadline for filing the 1099-C. The form must be submitted by a specific date to avoid penalties. Keeping track of these deadlines is essential for compliance.

Finally, individuals sometimes fail to keep copies of their submitted forms. Retaining these records is important for future reference and can be helpful if any questions arise later. Having a complete set of documents can simplify the process should the IRS request further information.

Documents used along the form

The IRS 1099-C form is used to report the cancellation of debt. When a debt is forgiven or canceled, the lender must provide this form to the borrower and the IRS. Several other documents may accompany the 1099-C form, providing additional context or necessary information for tax purposes. Below is a list of related forms and documents commonly used alongside the 1099-C.

  • IRS Form 1040: This is the standard individual income tax return form. Taxpayers report their income, deductions, and credits on this form, including any income from canceled debts.
  • IRS Form 982: This form is used to report the exclusion of canceled debt from income. Taxpayers can claim a reduction of tax attributes due to the cancellation of debt.
  • IRS Form 1099-A: This form is used to report the acquisition or abandonment of secured property. It is relevant when a property is foreclosed and may be related to the debt cancellation reported on the 1099-C.
  • IRS Form 1099-MISC: This form reports miscellaneous income. If the canceled debt is considered income, this form may be necessary to report other related income received during the year.
  • Loan Agreement Documents: These documents outline the terms of the loan. They may provide context for the debt that has been canceled and can be important for tax records.
  • Bank Statements: These records can show transactions related to the canceled debt. They serve as proof of payments made or the balance owed prior to cancellation.

Understanding these forms and documents is crucial for accurate tax reporting. Keeping organized records will help ensure compliance and may assist in addressing any questions from the IRS regarding the cancellation of debt.

Similar forms

The IRS 1099-C form is used to report the cancellation of debt. Several other forms serve similar purposes, providing important financial information to both taxpayers and the IRS. Here’s a list of six documents that are similar to the 1099-C form:

  • 1099-A: This form reports the acquisition or abandonment of secured property. It provides details about a foreclosure or repossession, similar to how the 1099-C addresses canceled debts.
  • 1099-MISC: This form is used to report miscellaneous income. Like the 1099-C, it informs the IRS about income that may not be reported on a W-2, including certain types of debt forgiveness.
  • 1099-INT: This document reports interest income. Both forms notify the IRS about income received, though the 1099-INT focuses specifically on interest rather than canceled debt.
  • 1099-DIV: This form reports dividends and distributions. Similar to the 1099-C, it informs taxpayers and the IRS about income, but it pertains specifically to investment earnings.
  • W-2: The W-2 form reports wages and salary. While it differs in context, both forms provide essential information about income earned, which may impact tax obligations.
  • Schedule K-1: This document reports income from partnerships, S corporations, estates, and trusts. Like the 1099-C, it informs taxpayers about income that could affect their tax liabilities.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the IRS 1099-C form, it’s essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here’s a list of what you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do provide accurate information about the debtor.
  • Do include the correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) for both the creditor and debtor.
  • Do report the amount of canceled debt accurately.
  • Do ensure you file the form by the deadline to avoid penalties.
  • Do keep copies of the form for your records.
  • Don’t leave any required fields blank.
  • Don’t use outdated forms; always use the latest version.
  • Don’t misreport the type of debt being canceled.
  • Don’t forget to send a copy to the debtor.

Following these guidelines will help you complete the IRS 1099-C form correctly and avoid potential issues with the IRS.

Misconceptions

The IRS 1099-C form, which reports the cancellation of debt, often leads to misunderstandings. Here are six common misconceptions about this form:

  • It only applies to personal loans. Many people believe the 1099-C is only relevant for personal loans. However, it can apply to various types of debts, including credit card debt, mortgages, and business loans.
  • Receiving a 1099-C means you owe taxes. A common myth is that if you receive a 1099-C, you automatically owe taxes on the canceled debt. While canceled debt may be taxable, there are exceptions, such as insolvency or certain types of student loans.
  • The lender must issue a 1099-C for all canceled debts. Not all lenders are required to issue a 1099-C. Only lenders who cancel a debt of $600 or more must report it, and sometimes they may choose not to file.
  • All canceled debt is taxable income. Many people assume that all canceled debt is treated as taxable income. In reality, there are specific situations where canceled debt can be excluded from taxable income, such as bankruptcy or insolvency.
  • You cannot dispute the information on a 1099-C. Some individuals think that the information on a 1099-C is set in stone. In fact, if you believe the information is incorrect, you can dispute it with the lender and request a correction.
  • Receiving a 1099-C means you have bad credit. There is a misconception that receiving this form indicates poor credit. While it may reflect a financial setback, it does not directly correlate with your credit score or overall creditworthiness.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate their financial situations more effectively. It's essential to seek guidance when dealing with tax forms and canceled debts.

Key takeaways

Understanding the IRS 1099-C form is essential for anyone who has had a debt canceled or forgiven. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Purpose of the Form: The 1099-C form reports the cancellation of debt. If a lender forgives a debt of $600 or more, they must issue this form to the borrower and the IRS.
  • Tax Implications: Canceled debt may be considered taxable income. It’s crucial to report this income when filing your taxes, as it can affect your overall tax liability.
  • Filing Requirements: If you receive a 1099-C form, you must include the information on your tax return. Ensure that the details match your records to avoid issues with the IRS.
  • Exceptions to Taxation: Some situations allow for exceptions. For example, if you are insolvent or if the debt is related to certain types of loans, you may not have to pay taxes on the canceled amount.

Take these points seriously. Understanding the 1099-C can help you navigate your financial responsibilities and avoid unexpected tax bills.