Skip to content
Paystub.biz

Why Copy A isn't included on W-2s and 1099s

The IRS and SSA only accept Copy A on the official red, scannable form or by e-file. A copy printed from a website would be rejected.

Copy A of Forms W-2, 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC is printed by the IRS in a special red ink that their scanners read. The IRS says a copy downloaded and printed from the web is not scannable, and filing one can lead to a penalty. That's why our PDFs leave Copy A out.

How to file Copy A

  • W-2: file online through the Social Security Administration's Business Services Online, or on paper with official red Copy A forms and Form W-3.
  • 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC: file online with the IRS (the IRIS portal, or FIRE for software filers), or on paper with official red Copy A forms and Form 1096.
  • Order official paper forms free from the IRS (search "order information returns" on irs.gov), or buy them from an office supply store.
  • If you file 10 or more information returns in a year, the IRS generally requires you to file electronically.

Use the figures from your PDF to fill in Copy A, so every copy matches.

We don't file anything with the IRS, SSA or any state for you.

Still stuck? Email support@paystub.biz or see the FAQ.