FIRE to IRIS: Everything You Need to Know

The IRS developed IRIS to provide a more modern, secure, and accessible electronic filing experience. IRIS simplifies information return submissions and creates a more efficient filing process for businesses.

Yes. Companies required to electronically file 1099 forms must submit them through an IRS-approved electronic filing system, such as IRIS. Our solution helps simplify the transition from FIRE to IRIS with secure filing tools and expert support, making it easier to meet your reporting requirements.

The IRS is transitioning away from the legacy FIRE system as it moves toward IRIS, a more modern electronic filing platform. While FIRE has supported the electronic filing of information returns for many years, IRIS is designed to provide employers with a more streamlined, secure filing experience. Our solution helps businesses confidently navigate the transition with easy-to-use filing tools, expert support, and a simpler process for submitting 1099 forms.

No. A FIRE Transmitter Control Code (TCC) does not transfer to IRIS. The IRS treats FIRE and IRIS as separate systems, so businesses that want to file directly through IRIS must apply for a new IRIS-specific authorization.
The application process can take several weeks and may include account setup, identity verification, and IRS review. If you wait too long to apply, you could risk delays during filing season.
When you file with us, there's no need to apply for an IRIS authorization code. We handle the filing on your behalf, helping you avoid the registration process and stay on track for important filing deadlines.

IRIS has stricter filing requirements than the legacy FIRE system. The IRS now validates your submission as soon as it's received, which means formatting errors or missing information can result in an immediate rejection.
That's where we come in. We handle the technical formatting and submission process, helping ensure your files meet IRIS requirements. All you need to do is provide accurate recipient and payment information. We'll help you prepare your data and guide you through the rest.

Accurate recipient information is more important than ever. IRIS has stricter requirements for how recipient names and tax ID numbers are reported, and mismatches can lead to IRS notices, penalties, or backup withholding requirements.
We'll help you catch issues before you file. Our filing template is designed to meet IRIS requirements, and we review your data to identify formatting issues before submission. You simply provide your recipient information, and we'll guide you through any updates needed to help ensure an accurate filing.
Want added peace of mind? We also offer Bulk TIN Matching to verify that recipient names and tax ID numbers match IRS records before you file. It's an easy way to reduce the risk of filing errors and avoid potential IRS issues.

We recommend starting with your original data sources rather than converting older FIRE files. While converting past files may seem like the easiest option, older data may contain formatting issues or outdated information that can create problems when filing through IRIS.
IRIS has stricter requirements for recipient names, tax ID information, and other details, so using updated records from your payroll system, accounting software, or vendor database is often the best way to ensure accuracy.
Not sure where to start? We can help. Our team can guide you through preparing your data before filing season begins, helping you identify potential issues early and avoid last-minute corrections.

Probably not. Most organizations do not need to replace their entire data process to file through IRIS. What may need to change depends on how your current systems organize and export your recipient and payment information.
The good news is that you do not need to manage the technical IRIS file requirements yourself. We handle that part. Your existing systems for collecting recipient information, tracking payments, and running reports can likely stay in place.
In some cases, your data export may need adjustments to work with IRIS requirements. For example, older systems may combine name fields or format information differently than IRIS requires. We help review your data, identify any gaps, and determine the best path forward.
We work with many types of systems, from spreadsheets and accounting software to payroll platforms and larger business systems. In most cases, we can work with the tools you already use. The best time to review your process is before filing season, so you have time to address any changes without last-minute stress.

The IRS transition is a federal change only. The move to IRIS only changes how you file with the IRS. It does not automatically change your state filing requirements. States have their own systems, rules, and deadlines, and many still use different filing formats.
For some businesses, this means managing both federal and state filing requirements during the transition. The good news is that you don't have to figure it out on your own. Depending on your state and the forms you file, there may be options to simplify the process.
We help manage both federal and state filing requirements. Before submitting your forms, we review the requirements that apply to your situation and help ensure your filings are handled correctly—so you can avoid missed requirements and unexpected issues.

One of the biggest improvements with IRIS is a simpler correction process. Unlike the old FIRE system, where correcting a filing could require resubmitting a larger batch of returns, IRIS tracks each accepted form individually. This means corrections can be made only to the specific record that needs to be updated.
For example, if one recipient’s address needs to be corrected, the update applies only to that form. Your other filings are not affected.
We make corrections easy to manage. We keep your filing records organized and track the information needed to submit updates when required. If a correction involves new information, such as an updated address, tax ID number, or payment amount, you provide the updated details and we handle the submission process. We also translate IRS responses into clear, easy-to-understand updates so you know exactly what was accepted and what needs attention.

Not yet. Prior-year returns that were originally filed through FIRE must still be corrected through the FIRE system. The IRS is working on a process for handling these corrections after the transition, but details are not finalized.
If you have any outstanding corrections from previous filing years, such as incorrect tax ID numbers, recipient information, or payment amounts, it’s best to address them now while the FIRE correction process is still available.
Need help identifying or handling past corrections? We can help you review your prior filings and determine the best next step before the transition is complete.

The earlier you start, the smoother your transition to IRIS will be. For many organizations, the biggest challenge is not the filing itself. It’s getting their data ready for the new requirements.
Preparing for IRIS may involve reviewing recipient information, confirming tax IDs, and making sure your payer details are accurate and properly formatted. For some businesses, this is a quick update. For others, it may uncover data issues that take time to resolve.
Starting early gives you time to get everything right without the pressure of a filing deadline. We’ll help review your data, guide you through the setup process, and make sure you’re comfortable with the filing workflow before January arrives.
Because this is the first year all organizations are transitioning from FIRE to IRIS, filing providers may be especially busy during peak season. Getting started early helps ensure you have the support and time you need for a smooth filing experience.