💼Freelancer
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1099-NEC vs 1099-MISC
Tax & Finance
Question 1 of 3

What type of payment did you make?

1099-NEC vs 1099-MISC Quick Reference

Payment Type1099-NEC1099-MISCThreshold
Independent contractor✅ Box 1$600
Attorney fees✅ Box 1$600
Rent✅ Box 1$600
Prizes / awards✅ Box 3$600
Medical payments✅ Box 6$600
Royalties✅ Box 4$10
Fishing boat proceeds✅ Box 5$600
📋 Source: IRS Publication 1220 & Instructions for Forms 1099-NEC/MISC, 2026 tax year
Data Source & Legal Disclaimer
Effective: 2026 tax year
Last updated: 5 months ago
Update frequency: Annual
Sources: IRS — Form 1099-NEC Instructions · IRS — Form 1099-MISC Instructions

Filing rules are based on IRS guidance for the 2026 tax year. Thresholds and deadlines may change. Consult a tax professional for specific filing requirements.

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About This Tool

Should you file Form 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC? This free interactive tool walks you through 3 simple questions to determine the right form for your payment type. Covers independent contractors, attorney fees, rent, prizes, medical payments, fishing boat proceeds, and royalties. Includes correct box numbers, filing thresholds, and 2026 deadlines. No signup — instant, free, accurate.

Decision treeBox numbersDeadlines

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