The 1099 form is a tax document used in the United States to report various types of income other than wages, salaries, and tips. It is commonly issued by businesses to independent contractors, freelancers, and other non-employees who have earned $600 or more in a tax year. There are several variations of the 1099 form, each designated for different types of income, such as interest, dividends, and rental income. Individuals receiving a 1099 form must report this income on their tax returns, as it is considered taxable. The form helps the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) track income that may not be reported through traditional employment channels. Properly filing a 1099 form ensures compliance with tax regulations and helps avoid potential penalties.