The IRS recently made a significant decision that could impact users of platforms like PayPal’s Venmo and Etsy. It has chosen to delay a requirement set by a 2021 law, which mandates companies to send tax forms (1099-K) to customers involved in business transactions surpassing $600.
Key Takeaways from the Delay
This delay for the 2024 filing season brings a sigh of relief for casual sellers, as they will not be receiving the 1099-K form for now, which usually contains information about gross payments made on these platforms. However, keep in mind that taxpayers are still responsible for reporting their income from these transactions on their tax returns.
Changes in Reporting Thresholds
For the upcoming filing season, the IRS is sticking to the old reporting threshold. This requires e-commerce companies to report transactions exceeding $20,000 in gross payments and more than 200 transactions. However, there is a significant change in the pipeline! Starting in tax year 2024, the IRS plans to transition to a new rule, gradually increasing the reporting threshold from $600 to $5,000.
Steering Clear of Confusion
One reason behind this delay is the confusion among taxpayers about which transactions are reportable under the new law. For instance, sales between friends and family or selling personal items like used clothing, furniture, or other household goods at a loss might trigger a 1099-K, even though they don’t result in tax liabilities. On the flip side, sales by small businesses generating profit could be taxable.
Congress’ Response
Lawmakers are actively proposing various thresholds—$5,000, $10,000, and $20,000—to simplify things for taxpayers. Meanwhile, the IRS is proceeding cautiously, working to implement the law while legislators explore potential solutions.
Your Input Matters: Seeking Feedback
The IRS wants your input! It is open to suggestions about the $5,000 threshold for 2024 and strategies to streamline reporting for taxable transactions. Tax professionals and anyone affected by these changes are encouraged to share their thoughts.
What to Expect Next
To sum up, personal transactions like splitting bills won’t fall under the reporting requirements. But keep in mind, there’s a $5,000 threshold planned for 2024. The IRS aims to simplify the reporting process for taxpayers and tax pros amidst these changes.
Bottom Line
The IRS has hit pause and is transitioning to a $5,000 threshold for 2024, all in an effort to strike a balance between compliance and reducing confusion for taxpayers. As the IRS continues to navigate these changes, your feedback remains critical in shaping a more manageable way to report taxable transactions.
