The IRS FIRE system shutdown 2026 is approaching fast, bringing major changes to how businesses file 1099 forms.

On November 19, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET, the IRS will stop accepting information returns through its Filing Information Returns Electronically (FIRE) system. Beginning in January 2027, the Information Returns Intake System (IRIS) will replace FIRE for electronic filing.

For landlords and property management companies, this means a new system, updated filing processes, and potentially more work during an already busy year-end season.

The good news? With the right bookkeeping team, the transition doesn’t have to be complicated.

What Is Changing With the IRS FIRE System Shutdown 2026?

For years, the IRS FIRE system has been used to electronically submit information returns, including Forms 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, and 1099-INT.

Now, the IRS is transitioning to its new Information Returns Intake System (IRIS), a modernized electronic filing platform.

But this isn’t simply a software update. IRIS introduces a different filing process, including:

• A separate Transmitter Control Code (TCC) application
• New submission formats and filing workflows
• Updated system access and registration requirements
• New procedures for preparing and transmitting information returns

The important part? Your existing FIRE setup will not automatically transfer to IRIS.

If your current 1099 filing process still relies on FIRE, now is the time to make sure your business is prepared.

Why IRIS 1099 E-Filing Matters for Landlords and Property Managers

Property management businesses handle countless financial transactions throughout the year, from contractor payments to owner distributions and vendor expenses.

Many of these transactions can create 1099 reporting obligations.

Common examples include:

Form 1099-NEC: Used to report qualifying payments to independent contractors, maintenance professionals, and service providers.

Form 1099-MISC: May apply to certain rental payments and other reportable transactions, depending on the property management arrangement.

Form 1099-INT: Used for reportable interest payments, which may include interest on security deposits in applicable circumstances.

Under current IRS rules, businesses filing 10 or more information returns in aggregate are generally required to file electronically.

For property management companies handling multiple properties, owners, and vendors, staying on top of 1099 compliance is an essential part of year-end bookkeeping.

And with the IRS FIRE system shutdown approaching, there’s one more deadline to prepare for.

The Hidden Challenge: Getting Your IRIS TCC

One of the biggest challenges with transitioning to IRIS is obtaining the correct Transmitter Control Code (TCC).

Even if your business already has a FIRE TCC, that code does not automatically authorize filing through IRIS.

Businesses filing directly through IRIS must complete a separate registration process.

That process may include:

1. Establishing the appropriate IRS account access
2. Submitting an IRIS TCC application
3. Confirming filing methods and software compatibility
4. Preparing information in an IRIS-compatible format
5. Reviewing and testing applicable filing workflows

The IRS advises allowing approximately 45 days for TCC processing, although timelines can vary.

For property managers already balancing trust account reconciliations, owner statements, vendor payments, and year-end financial reporting, that’s another administrative responsibility competing for valuable time.

Waiting until January to figure out your 1099 filing process could create unnecessary complications.

How FONDiFi Simplifies 1099 Compliance for Property Management

At FONDiFi, we believe property managers should spend less time worrying about bookkeeping and more time growing their portfolios.

That’s why our team has already prepared IRIS-compliant 1099 filing workflows to support the transition.

Whether your business uses AppFolio, Buildium, Yardi, Rent Manager, or QuickBooks, our bookkeeping professionals understand the financial data and reporting processes that property managers rely on.

Our team helps streamline:

• 1099 preparation and applicable filing requirements
• Vendor and contractor payment tracking
• Year-end financial reporting
• Bookkeeping reconciliations and data organization
• IRIS-compatible filing workflows

Instead of navigating a new IRS filing system on your own, you can rely on a bookkeeping team that understands the unique needs of the property management industry.

For FONDiFi clients, that means less administrative stress and more confidence heading into tax season.

Don’t Let 1099 Filing Disrupt Your Year-End Bookkeeping

The transition from FIRE to IRIS is just one piece of a much larger year-end bookkeeping process.

Between reconciling accounts, preparing financial statements, reviewing vendor payments, and organizing tax documents, the final months of the year can quickly become overwhelming.

And when your bookkeeping isn’t organized, even a relatively simple compliance change can turn into a time-consuming problem.

The best approach is to prepare early.

Review your current 1099 filing process, confirm your software and filing provider are IRIS-ready, and make sure your financial records are accurate before the January filing season begins.

Better yet, work with a bookkeeping partner who can help manage those details for you.

The Deadline Is Approaching. Is Your Property Management Business Ready?

November 19, 2026, marks the end of FIRE submissions. And for landlords and property managers still relying on the old system, the time to prepare is now.

At FONDiFi, our team specializes in property management bookkeeping and virtual back-office support, helping businesses stay organized, compliant, and focused on what matters most.

With more than 150,000 hours served and a team of 60+ bookkeepers, we understand the demands of property management accounting.

Ready to simplify your year-end bookkeeping?

Book your FREE 30-minute consultation with FONDiFi today.

Let’s review your current 1099 workflow, identify potential gaps, and help you prepare for a smoother transition to IRIS.

Because keeping up with IRS changes shouldn’t take time away from managing your properties.