Information return definition

What is an Information Return?

An information return is a tax return that contains information about the taxpayer, but which does not state a tax liability. This return is not accompanied by a tax payment. Information returns must be filed; if this is not done in a timely manner or contains incorrect information, a taxpayer may be subject to penalties. Examples of information returns are:

  • Form 1065 (partnership return)

  • Form 1099 (miscellaneous income)

  • Form W-2 (wage and tax statement)

The submitting organization should always retain a copy of each information return sent to the government.

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