FIRE shuts down for good on December 31, 2026. Everything you need to migrate, file, and stay compliant — registration, XML, deadlines, and the conversion that keeps your existing files.
The IRS is permanently shutting down FIRE on December 31, 2026. All electronic information-return filing moves to IRIS. This hub covers migration steps, registration, industry playbooks, technical references, and software comparisons. e1099f customers: upload your existing FIRE-format files and we convert them to IRIS XML automatically.
IRIS (Information Returns Intake System) is the IRS's modern platform for electronic information-return filing, replacing the legacy FIRE system. Launched in 2022, it processes all 1099-series forms and accepts submissions through three channels.
FIRE has filed information returns since the early 1990s using fixed-width text files. Its aging architecture can't support modernization — IRIS brings XML submissions, real-time validation, and a modern API. After December 31, 2026, FIRE accepts nothing. Period.
Identify every system, process, and vendor that touches FIRE so nothing is missed in the move.
File through the IRS portal (small volume), build native IRIS XML (developer-heavy), or use a provider like e1099f (zero changes).
If filing directly, register and obtain an IRIS TCC. Allow 45+ days for approval. e1099f customers skip this step.
Use the IRIS testing sandbox to validate your XML before going live. Catch errors before they count.
Submit your first production filing through IRIS, monitor for error codes, and verify acceptance.
Multi-client filing, compliance workflows
Payroll integration, W-2/1099 crossover
High-volume 1099-INT/DIV, compliance
1099-K volume filing, threshold changes
1099-R, 1099-SA, claims reporting
1099-S, rental income, 1098 reporting
First-time e-filing, simple requirements
ERP integration, API migration, schemas
The migration changes how returns are structured, validated, and transmitted. FIRE's position-based flat file becomes IRIS's self-describing XML.
You don't have to rewrite your systems, learn XML, or wait months for a TCC. e1099f handles the entire IRIS transition for you.
Upload your existing Publication 1220 flat files exactly as you do today. No format changes, no developer time.
We convert your data to IRIS XML automatically — schema validation, error translation, and resubmission included.
e1099f files under its own IRS-authorized TCC. Skip the 45-day application and start filing today.
FIRE shuts down permanently on December 31, 2026. After that date no submissions are accepted through FIRE; all filing must go through IRIS starting January 1, 2027.
Yes, if you file directly — FIRE TCCs won't work with IRIS, and the new application takes 45+ days. If you file through an IRS-authorized provider like e1099f, you don't need your own TCC at all.
Not directly with the IRS — IRIS requires XML. But e1099f accepts your existing FIRE-format files and converts them to IRIS XML automatically; your process doesn't change, only the backend filing channel.
The suitability review typically takes 45 days or longer. Including e-Services setup and ID.me, the total can run 2–3 months — so apply well before the FIRE shutdown.