The requirements to file magnetically or electronically depend on the types of
information returns you must file.
Any person, including corporations, partnerships, employers, estates, and trusts, who
files 250 or more information returns on any 1099 series form, 1098, 5498, W-2G, 1042S,
and 8027, or more than 250 Forms W-2 for any calendar year, must file these returns
electronically or magnetically. This requirement applies separately for each type of form.
All requirements apply separately to both original and corrected forms.
Forms 1098, the 1099 series, 5498, and W-2G may be filed electronically or on ½ inch
magnetic tape, 8mm, 4mm and quarter inch tape cartridge, 5 ¼ inch diskette, or 3 ½ inch
diskette. General information on filing and making corrections as well as specifications
for magnetic media and electronic filing are found in Publication 1220. To request this
publication, call 1-800-829-3676.
Form 8027 may be filed on ½ inch magnetic tape, and 5 ¼ inch and 3 ½ inch
diskettes. Specifications for Form 8027 may be found in Publication 1239. Form 1042S may
be filed electronically on ½ inch magnetic tape, tape cartridge, or on 5 1/4 inch or 3 ½
inch diskettes. Form 1042S specifications may be found in Publication 1187.
For assistance with the information in Publication 1187, 1220, and 1239 contact the
Information Reporting Program Call Site by calling (304) 263-8700, or on
Telecommunications Device for the Deaf TDD telephone number (304) 267-3367 between 8:30
a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
All specifications for magnetic filing of Forms W-2 may be found in the technical
bulletins available from the Social Security Administration.
If you are unable to prepare the files yourself, and want to purchase software or
locate someone to file on your behalf, the Information Reporting Program Call Site can
provide you with a list of vendors. The list may also be downloaded from the Information
Reporting Program Bulletin Board System by dialing 303-264-7070. The list is for
information only, and in no way implies IRS approval or endorsement of products or
services. You may also check your telephone directory for service bureaus.
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