Backup withholding: What businesses should know - (7/1/2026)
Hiring independent contractors can offer flexibility for growing businesses, but it also comes with important tax reporting responsibilities. In most cases, you aren’t required to withhold taxes from payments to contractors. However, there are situations in which the “backup withholding” rules apply.
Backup withholding is most commonly required when a contractor fails to provide a correct Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), such as a Social Security number or Employer Identification Number, or doesn’t properly complete Form W-9, “Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification.” The IRS may also notify your business that backup withholding is required for a specific payee.
The backup withholding rate is 24%. If required, you must withhold 24% from payments to the contractor and remit those funds to the IRS using Form 945, “Annual Return of Withheld Federal Income Tax.”
The withheld amount must also be reported on the appropriate information return, such as:
- Form 1099-NEC for payments to independent contractors and freelancers,
- Form 1099-MISC for certain other payments, such as rents, prizes, awards or medical payments, and
- Form 1099-K, generally issued by third-party payment processors, in limited situations.
Businesses must generally provide Forms 1099 to recipients and file them with the IRS by January 31 of the following year.
If you’re unsure whether backup withholding applies or need help navigating the requirements, we can help. Consult us before filing deadlines to stay compliant and avoid potential penalties.
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