# Form 1098 Filing Guide | Know the March 2, 2026 Deadline
<p><strong>Form 1098 is an IRS information return used to report mortgage interest and related payments, and when filed on paper, it must be submitted with Form 1096.</strong></p>
<p>Form 1098 Filing Guide | Know the March 2, 2026 Deadline. Call&nbsp;[phone] for expert guidance.</p>
<article>
<p>Paper filing may sound like a relic from the past, but many lenders and institutions still rely on it. When you choose this route, accuracy matters even more.</p>
<p>Form 1098 does not travel alone. When mailed to the IRS, it needs Form 1096 as its official cover sheet, or things can go off track quickly.</p>
<h2>Table of Contents</h2>
<ul>
<li>What Is Form 1098</li>
<li>Why Form 1096 Matters</li>
<li>Who Must File Form 1098 on Paper</li>
<li>How Paper Filing Works Step by Step</li>
<li>Common Mistakes to Avoid</li>
<li>Trusted IRS Sources</li>
<li>Conclusion</li>
<li>FAQs</li>
</ul>
<h2>What Is Form 1098?</h2>
<p>Form 1098 reports mortgage interest, points, and certain related charges paid by borrowers during the year. Lenders send it to borrowers and the IRS.</p>
<p>Borrowers often use this form to support deductions, which makes accuracy essential. A small error can lead to big questions.</p>
<h2>Why Form 1096 Matters?</h2>
<p>If you file Form 1098 by paper, the IRS requires Form 1096. Think of it as the summary page that explains what you are mailing.</p>
<p>Form 1096 tells the IRS how many Forms 1098 you included and the total dollar amounts reported. Without it, processing slows down.</p>
<p>If you feel unsure, a quick call to <strong>[phone]</strong> can save hours of rework.</p>
<h2>Who Must File Form 1098 on Paper?</h2>
<p>Lenders who issue fewer forms or receive IRS approval for paper filing often use this method. Electronic filing rules differ.</p>
<p>If you mail Forms 1098, you must include a separate Form 1096 for that form type. Mixing forms creates confusion and delays.</p>
<h2>How Paper Filing Works Step by Step</h2>
<ol>
<li>Complete each Form 1098 carefully using IRS instructions.</li>
<li>Order the official red-ink Form 1096 from the IRS.</li>
<li>Summarize totals accurately on Form 1096.</li>
<li>Attach Form 1096 to the front of the Form 1098 stack.</li>
<li>Mail everything to the correct IRS address.</li>
</ol>
<p>Many filers overlook the red-ink requirement. Printing Form 1096 from a home printer does not meet IRS standards.</p>
<p>When deadlines approach, professionals at <strong>[phone]</strong> often step in to help businesses stay compliant.</p>
<h2>Common Mistakes to Avoid</h2>
<ul>
<li>Using the wrong version of Form 1096</li>
<li>Combining different form types under one Form 1096</li>
<li>Mismatched totals between Form 1098 and Form 1096</li>
<li>Missing signatures or business details</li>
</ul>
<p>These errors look small but can trigger IRS notices. Attention to detail keeps filing smooth.</p>
<h2>Trusted IRS Sources</h2>
<p>Rely on official IRS guidance to stay accurate:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1098" target="_blank">IRS Overview of Form 1098</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1096" target="_blank">IRS Overview of Form 1096</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/instructions/i1098" target="_blank">IRS Instructions for Form 1098</a></li>
</ul>
<p>Using these resources improves compliance and builds long-term trust.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>Form 1098 paper filing works best when paired correctly with Form 1096. Together, they help the IRS process mortgage interest data efficiently.</p>
<p><strong>Booksmerge</strong> supports lenders and businesses with accurate information return filing. For expert help, contact <strong>[phone]</strong> and file with confidence.</p>
<h2>FAQs</h2>
<p><strong>1. Is Form 1096 required for all Form 1098 paper filings?</strong></p>
<p>Yes. The IRS requires Form 1096 whenever Form 1098 is filed by mail.</p>
<p><strong>2. Can I download Form 1096 online?</strong></p>
<p>No. You must use the official IRS scannable version ordered directly from the IRS.</p>
<p><strong>3. Do electronic filers need Form 1096?</strong></p>
<p>No. Form 1096 applies only to paper filings.</p>
<p><strong>4. Where can I confirm mailing addresses?</strong></p>
<p>Check the IRS instructions for Form 1098 on the official IRS website.</p>
</article>