This year, the usual January 31 deadline for furnishing information returns falls on a Saturday. That means the next business day — February 2, 2026, Groundhog Day — is the official deadline.
W-2s for Employees
By February 2, employers must furnish and/or file the following 2025 forms:
- Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement: This form details wages paid and taxes withheld for each employee. It must be provided to employees and filed with the Social Security Administration (SSA). Accuracy is critical since Social Security and Medicare benefits are based on this information.
- Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements: Required for anyone filing W-2s, this form transmits Copy A of W-2s to the SSA. Totals must align with employment tax forms such as Form 941, 943, 944, or Schedule H.
1099-NECs for Independent Contractors
The February 2 deadline also applies to Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation. This form must be furnished to independent contractors and filed with the IRS if:
- Payments were made to a non-employee.
- Payments were for services in the course of business.
- Payments went to an individual, partnership, estate, or certain corporations.
- Total payments reached at least $600 in 2025.
Note: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (2025) raised the threshold to $2,000, but this applies to payments made in 2026 (reported in 2027). Starting in 2027, the threshold will adjust annually for inflation.
Other Forms
Businesses may also need to furnish Form 1099-MISC for payments such as rent, medical expenses, prizes, awards, or attorney services. The recipient deadline is also February 2.
Submission deadlines vary:
- Paper filing: March 2, 2026 (since February 28 falls on a Saturday).
- Electronic filing: March 31, 2026.
Furnish and File on Time
“Furnishing” a form means delivering it in person, electronically, or by first-class mail to the recipient’s last known address. If mailed, W-2s or 1099-NECs must be postmarked by February 2.
Avoid Penalties
Don’t let the Groundhog Day deadline cast a shadow over your tax season. Missing deadlines or filing incorrect information can result in penalties. Reach out with questions about W-2s, 1099-NECs, or other tax forms to ensure compliance.
© 2026