IRS Update: New Non-Employee Payment Thresholds Effective January 1, 2026
The IRS is updating several reporting thresholds beginning January 1, 2026, and these changes affect how VCU processes payments to non-employees. This includes research and survey participants, guest speakers, community members, and others receiving incentive or stipend payments.
What’s Changing
SSN / W-9 Collection Threshold
VCU will collect SSN/W-9 information when a non-employee receives $250 or more in total payments during a calendar year. (Previously, this threshold was $50.)
1099-MISC Reporting Threshold
VCU will issue a 1099-MISC when total payments to a non-employee reach $2,000 in a calendar year. (Previously, this threshold was $600.)
These are IRS-driven changes and apply to all non-employee payments reported through 1099-MISC.
Employees
Payments to VCU employees—including employees who participate in research studies—will continue to be processed through Payroll and follow employee tax-reporting rules.
Website Update
The Compensate a Research Participant webpage will be updated to reflect the new IRS thresholds and related guidance around the January 1 effective date.
Questions
For assistance with payment processing or tax-reporting requirements:
- Submit a ticket, or
- Join the weekly Tuesday Virtual Office Hour