What Is a 1099 Form?

A 1099 is a tax form that reports income you received outside of a regular job — things like freelance work, interest, dividends, or rent. Unlike a W-2, no taxes are withheld from 1099 income, so you may owe taxes when you file. There are many types of 1099s: 1099-NEC for self-employment, 1099-INT for interest, and more. You should receive 1099s by January 31 each year. Even if you don't receive a 1099, the income is still taxable and must be reported.