Paying Contractors? Start Tracking Now So January Isn't a Scramble.

If you start collecting W-9s and tagging contractor payments now, January becomes a 10-minute task instead of a panic.

1. The new 1099-NEC threshold for 2026 payments is $2000, not $600.

2. Verify that W-9 vendor names match their legal names.

3. Payments can be mixed between checks, ACH, Venmo, etc. - start now to get an accurate accounting for what each contractor was paid.

4. The IRS requires a W-9 before paying a contractor. Without a W-9, you may be required to withhold 24% (backup withholding).

5. A good job-cost tracking system helps keep this organized. If you have grown beyond fixed payments for small jobs then it's time to set up a job-costing system.

Schedule an Intro Call with me now if you want to discuss this...