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Do I Need to File if I Have Multiple 1099s?

If you’re a Gen Z earner working freelance gigs, landing NIL deals, running side hustles, or taking on contract work, chances are you’ve collected more than one 1099 this tax season. Navigating multiple forms while managing the demands of non-traditional income can get confusing quickly. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get clarity on your filing responsibilities.

Q1: Do I have to file taxes if I receive multiple 1099s?

Yes, most likely. If your total income from all sources (including 1099s, part-time jobs, and other taxable earnings) is above the minimum IRS filing threshold—which for single filers is typically quite low ($13,850 for the most recent tax year)—you need to file a tax return. Even if taxes weren’t withheld from your 1099 earnings, the IRS expects you to report all your income, no matter how many 1099s you get.

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Q2: What if I only made a little money from each side hustle?

Even small amounts add up. The IRS looks at your total income for the year. If you have multiple 1099s from Uber, brand collabs, content creation, or part-time contract work, you must add all that income together. If you pass the filing threshold, you have to file. There’s no special exemption for tiny jobs or micro-incomes.

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Q3: What kinds of 1099s should I expect if I’m self-employed or hustling on the side?

The most common is the 1099-NEC, which you’ll get if you earn $600 or more from one client or company. If you get paid through apps like Venmo or PayPal, you might see a 1099-K, especially if those payments exceed $600 in total from a platform. NIL income/contracts, content sponsorships, and event appearance fees may show up on either form depending on how you were paid.

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Q4: What if I don’t get a 1099 for every side gig?

You’re still required to report all earnings, whether or not a 1099 was sent your way. Clients or platforms might not issue a 1099 if you made less than $600—but it’s your responsibility to track, report, and pay taxes on all income. Keeping your own records (in a spreadsheet or app) is crucial.

Q5: Are there special tax breaks or deductions for creators and freelancers?

Definitely. You can write off legitimate business expenses—think gear, software, travel for gigs, website domain fees, or even a portion of your phone bill. Claiming all eligible deductions lowers your taxable income. Saving receipts and tracking expenses throughout the year can make a big difference at filing time.

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Q6: What happens if I don’t file or I miss some 1099 income?

Skipping your return or forgetting to report income can lead to IRS letters, penalties, or extra taxes down the road. Most platforms and companies send copies of your 1099s to the IRS, so they know what you’ve earned. If you’re unsure, talk with a pro before you hit submit.

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Next Steps for Gen Z Side Hustlers and Creators

Tax rules for multiple 1099s can get tricky, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. If you have questions or want help maximizing your return, contact AccuBooks at (949) 636-6916 or srh@accubooks.me. Get guidance, peace of mind, and make sure you’re set for tax season.

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