As we begin 2016, many small business owners start gathering the necessary documents for filing their 2015 taxes. Small businesses who have employees or independent contractors are required to distribute tax forms (W-2 for employees, 1099 for contractors) by the end of January.  If in the past you have been getting your blank forms from a Taxpayer Assistance Center, please note that this is no longer an option.

The Internal Revenue Service has announced that forms used by small businesses will no longer be available at taxpayer assistance centers, and must be ordered online.

The demand for paper tax products is declining because of an increase in e-filing and the availability of products online. Due to the decreased demand and printing and shipping costs, the IRS will no longer stock Forms W-2, W-3 and 1099 in Taxpayer Assistance Centers. The forms, which are used by small business owners, can be ordered online or by telephone and mailed directly to the taxpayer’s home or business address. Don’t wait until the last minute to get blank Forms W-2, W-3 or 1099.

To order online, go to the IRS’ Online Ordering for Information Returns and Employer Returns.

To order by phone, call the IRS at: 1-800-829-3676.

The Social Security Administration also offers an online option to create and file electronic Forms W-2. File Forms W-2/W-2c and W-3/W-3c electronically by visiting the Social Security Administration’s Employer Reporting Instructions and Information website to create and file electronic fill-in versions of Forms W-2 and W-3.

If you’re interested in an overview of any other changes related to Social Security for Tax Year 2015, view the Social Security Administration’s guide to the most recent updates. You can also visit the IRS’s webpage for Self Employed and Small Businesses if you have additional questions about filing and paying your business taxes.

Lastly, don’t forget to check out the section of our Resource Library that covers taxes. Happy filing!