Know who you paid? We’ll handle the rest.
Whether someone is an employee or a contractor determines which form you need to file. We’ll remove the guesswork by clearly explaining the difference and guiding you to the right form for your needs.
Use a W-2 for employees
Employees work under your direction. You control how, when, and where the work is done, and taxes are withheld from their pay.
Common examples:
Full-time or part-time staff
Employees on payroll
Workers receiving regular wages
Use a 1099-NEC for contractors
Contractors work independently. You pay them for services, and they handle their own taxes.
Common examples:
Freelancers
Consultants
Independent contractors
If you paid a contractor $600 or more, you are generally required to file a 1099-NEC.
Use a 1099-MISC for miscellaneous payments
This form reports specific types of income that aren’t reported on a 1099-NEC.
Common examples:
Rent payments
Prizes and awards
Royalties
Payments to attorneys
Other qualifying income over $600
If you made payments in these categories, you’ll need to file a 1099-MISC.
How It Works
Step 1 - Create
Choose your form type (W-2, 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC) and enter your payer and recipient details.
Step 2 - Submit
Review everything and securely e-file to the IRS and your state, when required.
Step 3 - Share
Send forms by email, print them yourself, or have Adams mail them for you.
Everything you need, where you need it
Whether you’re filing for employees, contractors, or both, Adams keeps everything organized and easy to manage.
File with confidence:
Accurate income reporting
Clear guidance on which form to file
Avoid IRS penalties
Built-in checks to catch common errors
IRS-compliant and always current
Flexible delivery options
