IRS Form 945 Guide (2026): Reporting & Depositing 24% Vendor Backup Withholding

Any business that withholds 24% IRC § 3406 backup withholding from a vendor who failed to provide a signed Form W-9 must deposit the withheld tax via EFTPS and file Form 945 (Annual Return of Withheld Federal Income Tax) by January 31.

Open 2026 $2,000 vs. $600 1099 & W-9 Reconciler

2026 Compliance Checklist

• Collect Signed Form W-9 Before First Disbursement: Never release a check, ACH, or Zelle payment without a signed W-9 on file, or deduct 24% IRC § 3406 backup withholding.
• Separate IRC § 6050W Card/TPSO Payments: Exclude Stripe, Square, and credit card payments from Form 1099-NEC Box 1.
• Verify State $600 Non-Conformity: Even if a vendor was paid between $600 and $1,999 in 2026 (exempt federally under OBBBA § 70432), verify whether your state still mandates a $600 state 1099 filing.