Why did I get a 1099 from my mortgage company takes center stage, this opening passage beckons readers into a world crafted with good knowledge, ensuring a reading experience that is both absorbing and distinctly original. It’s a question that might arise unexpectedly, prompting a deeper dive into the financial and tax landscape surrounding your mortgage interactions. This exploration aims to illuminate the reasons behind receiving such a form, offering clarity and guidance for navigating its implications with confidence and understanding.
Receiving a 1099 form from your mortgage company, while perhaps surprising, often signifies a legitimate financial transaction that requires attention for tax purposes. These forms, typically a 1099-MISC or 1099-NEC, are used to report payments made to individuals or businesses who are not employees. Understanding the nuances of these forms, the common scenarios that lead to their issuance, and the tax implications involved is crucial for accurate financial management and compliance.
This guide will break down the essentials, from deciphering the form itself to understanding your responsibilities as a recipient.
Understanding the 1099 Form from a Mortgage Company

Receiving a Form 1099 from your mortgage company might initially spark confusion, especially if you’re accustomed to W-2 employment. However, these forms are a standard part of the U.S. tax system, designed to accurately report various types of income paid to individuals and businesses. Understanding what a 1099 signifies, particularly when issued by a mortgage entity, is crucial for accurate tax filing and financial awareness.The core purpose of a 1099 form is to inform both the recipient and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about income that isn’t subject to regular wage withholding.
This ensures that all taxable income is accounted for. Mortgage companies, like many other businesses, engage in various transactions that can result in payments to individuals or entities that necessitate this reporting.
The Purpose of Form 1099-MISC and 1099-NEC in Mortgage Services
Form 1099-MISC (Miscellaneous Income) and Form 1099-NEC (Nonemployee Compensation) are the primary 1099 variants issued by mortgage companies to report payments made to individuals or businesses for services rendered or other miscellaneous income. The distinction between these two forms is critical: 1099-NEC is specifically for reporting payments of $600 or more to independent contractors for services performed. 1099-MISC is used for reporting other types of miscellaneous income, such as rent, royalties, or prizes, and has been streamlined to exclude nonemployee compensation, which is now exclusively reported on Form 1099-NEC.
Common Scenarios for Mortgage Company 1099 Issuance, Why did i get a 1099 from my mortgage company
Mortgage companies engage a variety of professionals and entities to facilitate their operations. Payments made to these third parties, when exceeding certain thresholds, trigger the issuance of a 1099. These scenarios often involve individuals or businesses providing specialized services that are integral to the mortgage process but are not considered direct employees.Here are common scenarios where a mortgage company might issue a 1099 to an individual:
- Appraisal Services: Independent appraisers who assess property values for loan applications are often paid as independent contractors.
- Property Inspections: Individuals conducting property inspections, such as for foreclosures or during loan servicing, may receive 1099s.
- Legal Services: Attorneys providing legal counsel or services related to loan origination, servicing, or foreclosure may be compensated in a manner that requires a 1099.
- Notary Public Services: Notaries who notarize loan documents and are paid directly by the mortgage company for these services.
- Property Preservation: Companies or individuals hired to maintain or preserve foreclosed properties.
- Loan Officers/Brokers (Independent Contractors): While many loan officers are employees, some may operate as independent contractors and receive commissions reported on a 1099-NEC.
Typical Box Numbers on a 1099 Related to Mortgage Income
Understanding the specific boxes on a 1099 form is essential for correctly identifying and reporting the income. The most relevant boxes for payments from mortgage companies typically fall on Form 1099-NEC and sometimes Form 1099-MISC.For payments to independent contractors for services, the primary box is:
- Form 1099-NEC, Box 1: Nonemployee Compensation
-This box is used to report payments of $600 or more made to individuals who are not employees for services performed. This is the most common box you’ll see for services rendered to a mortgage company as an independent contractor.
While less common for direct service provision, Form 1099-MISC might be used for other types of payments:
- Form 1099-MISC, Box 2: Royalties
-If a mortgage company pays royalties, for example, for the use of intellectual property related to mortgage software or processes, this box would be used. - Form 1099-MISC, Box 3: Other Income
-This box is a catch-all for miscellaneous income not reported in other boxes, which could theoretically include certain payments from a mortgage company that don’t fit other categories. - Form 1099-MISC, Box 7: Payer made direct sales of $5,000 or more of consumer products to a buyer (recipient) for resale
-This is highly unlikely in a mortgage context but is a general 1099-MISC box.
The Difference Between a W-2 and a 1099 for Service Providers
The distinction between a W-2 and a 1099 is fundamental to understanding your employment and tax obligations. While both report income, they signify vastly different working relationships and tax treatments.A W-2 form is issued to employees. It details wages, salaries, and tips paid, and importantly, shows the amounts of federal, state, and local income taxes, as well as Social Security and Medicare taxes, that have been withheld by the employer.
As an employee, your employer is responsible for these withholdings and for paying a portion of your Social Security and Medicare taxes.
A W-2 signifies an employer-employee relationship, with the employer controlling the work and withholding taxes.
A 1099 form, typically 1099-NEC or 1099-MISC, is issued to independent contractors or nonemployees. It reports payments made for services rendered, but crucially, it does not include any tax withholdings. This means that as an independent contractor, you are responsible for calculating and paying your own income taxes, as well as the full amount of Social Security and Medicare taxes (known as self-employment tax).The key differences can be summarized as follows:
| Feature | W-2 Recipient (Employee) | 1099 Recipient (Independent Contractor) |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship | Employer-Employee | Client-Contractor |
| Tax Withholding | Employer withholds federal, state, local income taxes, Social Security, and Medicare. | No taxes withheld by the payer. Recipient is responsible for all taxes. |
| Social Security & Medicare Taxes | Employer pays half, employee pays half. | Recipient pays the full amount (self-employment tax). |
| Control over Work | Employer dictates how, when, and where work is performed. | Contractor generally has more control over how and when work is done. |
| Benefits | May be eligible for employer-sponsored benefits (health insurance, retirement plans, etc.). | Typically not eligible for client-provided benefits. |
Navigating Tax Implications of a Mortgage Company 1099

Receiving a Form 1099 from your mortgage company might initially feel like a tax puzzle, but understanding its implications is crucial for accurate tax filing and potentially maximizing your deductions. This form essentially signals that you’ve earned income that wasn’t subject to typical employer withholding. The key is to recognize this income and then strategically leverage eligible business expenses to reduce your taxable burden.For tax purposes, income reported on a 1099-NEC (Nonemployee Compensation) or similar forms is generally considered business income.
This means it’s subject to income tax, and importantly, self-employment tax. Unlike traditional employment where your employer splits Social Security and Medicare taxes with you, as an independent contractor receiving a 1099, you are responsible for paying both halves. This distinction is vital for accurate tax planning and budgeting throughout the year.
Self-Employment Tax Explained
Self-employment tax is levied on earnings from self-employment and covers Social Security and Medicare taxes. For 2023, the self-employment tax rate is 15.3% on the first $160,200 of net earnings, with 12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare. For earnings above that threshold, only the 2.9% Medicare tax applies. A significant benefit is that you can deduct one-half of your self-employment taxes paid when calculating your adjusted gross income, effectively reducing your overall income tax liability.
The self-employment tax is calculated on 92.35% of your net earnings from self-employment.
Common Deductible Business Expenses
As an individual receiving a 1099 from a mortgage company, you’re likely operating as an independent contractor or a small business owner. This status allows you to deduct ordinary and necessary business expenses incurred in generating that income. These deductions are not only permissible but essential for accurately reflecting your net profit and reducing your tax bill. It’s vital to maintain meticulous records of all expenses, including receipts, invoices, and mileage logs, to substantiate your claims.To help you identify potential tax savings, here is a comprehensive list of common deductible business expenses for individuals working with mortgage companies:
- Home Office Deduction: If you regularly and exclusively use a portion of your home for your mortgage business, you may be able to deduct a portion of your home expenses, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, utilities, and insurance.
- Vehicle Expenses: Costs associated with using your vehicle for business purposes, including mileage, gas, oil, repairs, and insurance, can be deducted. You can either use the standard mileage rate or deduct actual expenses.
- Business Travel: Expenses incurred for business travel, such as transportation, lodging, and meals (subject to limitations), are deductible when traveling away from your tax home primarily for business.
- Office Supplies: Costs for stationery, postage, printing, and other general office supplies used in your business operations.
- Professional Development and Education: Expenses for courses, seminars, conferences, and professional publications that help you maintain or improve skills required for your mortgage business.
- Licensing and Fees: Costs associated with obtaining and maintaining your mortgage licenses, certifications, and any required professional association dues.
- Software and Technology: Subscriptions to CRM software, loan origination software, accounting programs, and the purchase or lease of business-related technology like computers and printers.
- Marketing and Advertising: Expenses for business cards, website development and maintenance, online advertising, and other promotional activities to attract clients.
- Communication Expenses: A portion of your cell phone and internet bills can be deducted if used for business.
- Insurance: Premiums for business liability insurance or errors and omissions insurance.
- Legal and Professional Fees: Costs for consulting with accountants, attorneys, or other professionals for business advice.
- Bank Fees: Fees associated with your dedicated business bank account.
Organizing Potential Deductions
Effectively organizing your potential deductions is paramount to a smooth tax filing experience and maximizing your tax savings. Creating a dedicated system for tracking income and expenses from the outset will prevent the stressful scramble at tax season. Consider using accounting software, spreadsheets, or even a dedicated notebook to log every transaction. Categorizing expenses as they occur will make it easier to identify all eligible deductions when it’s time to prepare your tax return.The following table Artikels key categories of deductions and provides a snapshot of what might be considered:
| Deduction Category | Examples of Deductible Expenses | Importance of Record Keeping |
|---|---|---|
| Home Office | Rent/mortgage interest, utilities, insurance, repairs | Requires strict adherence to exclusive and regular use rules; detailed records of home expenses are vital. |
| Vehicle Expenses | Mileage, gas, maintenance, insurance, repairs | Maintain a mileage log or track actual expenses meticulously. |
| Business Supplies & Services | Office supplies, software subscriptions, professional development, marketing | Keep all receipts and invoices for purchases. |
| Professional Fees & Dues | Licensing fees, association dues, legal/accounting advice | Document payments and the purpose of the fees. |
Actions to Take Upon Receiving a 1099 from a Mortgage Company

Receiving a 1099 form from your mortgage company might initially seem perplexing, but it’s a standard procedure for reporting specific types of financial transactions. Understanding what to do next empowers you to manage your tax obligations effectively and ensures accuracy in your filings. This section will guide you through the essential steps to take, from verifying the information to integrating it into your tax return.
The most crucial step after receiving a 1099 is to confirm its accuracy. This form is an informational document sent to both you and the IRS, detailing income you’ve received that is not subject to standard payroll withholding. Verifying its contents prevents potential issues with the IRS and ensures your tax return accurately reflects your financial situation.
Receiving a 1099 from your mortgage company often relates to interest paid or other financial transactions. This can sometimes lead to questions about property ownership, like wondering if can you quit claim deed a house with a mortgage. Understanding these processes helps clarify why you received that 1099.
Verifying the Accuracy of Reported Information
Before you even think about reporting the income, take a moment to meticulously review the 1099 form itself. Accuracy is paramount, and catching any discrepancies early can save you significant hassle down the line. You’ll want to cross-reference the information on the form with your own records to ensure everything aligns.
- Check Personal Identification: Confirm that your name, address, and Social Security Number (SSN) or Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) are correctly listed on the form. Any errors here could lead to misidentification by the IRS.
- Review Income Amounts: Carefully examine the box indicating the amount of income reported. Compare this figure with your own documentation of payments received from the mortgage company. This could include records of interest paid to you, late fees collected, or any other taxable distributions.
- Examine Reporting Details: Understand what each box on the 1099 signifies. For example, a 1099-INT typically reports interest income, while a 1099-MISC might report other types of miscellaneous income. Ensure the reported income type aligns with your understanding of the transaction.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Reporting 1099 Income
Reporting income from a 1099 form is a straightforward process when you follow these steps. The key is to accurately transfer the information from the form to the appropriate sections of your tax return, ensuring all taxable income is accounted for.
- Identify the Correct Tax Form: Determine which IRS tax form is appropriate for the type of income reported on your 1099. For instance, interest income is typically reported on Schedule B (Interest and Ordinary Dividends) and then carried to Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return). Other income types may require different schedules.
- Gather Your 1099 Forms: Have all your 1099 forms readily available. If you received multiple 1099s from the same mortgage company or different entities, consolidate them.
- Enter Information on Your Tax Return: Locate the relevant lines on your tax return (e.g., Form 1040, Schedule B). Carefully input the information from your 1099, including the payer’s name, TIN, and the reported income amount.
- Attach Supporting Schedules: If you are using schedules like Schedule B, ensure they are completed accurately and attached to your main Form 1040.
- Keep Records: Retain copies of all your 1099 forms and your tax return for your personal records. This is crucial for future reference and in case of any IRS inquiries.
Consulting with a Tax Professional
While many taxpayers can navigate 1099 reporting independently, there are instances where professional guidance is highly beneficial. A tax professional can offer clarity, ensure accuracy, and help you identify potential tax deductions or credits you might otherwise overlook.
Engaging with a tax professional is particularly advisable if:
- You have multiple or complex 1099 forms from various sources.
- The income reported is significant and impacts your overall tax liability substantially.
- You are unsure about how to categorize the income or which deductions apply.
- You have experienced discrepancies or errors on your 1099 form and need assistance in resolving them.
- You are a first-time recipient of a 1099 from a mortgage company and want to ensure compliance.
A qualified tax advisor can provide personalized advice, ensuring you meet all your tax obligations while optimizing your tax situation.
Handling Discrepancies or Errors on the 1099 Form
Discovering an error on your 1099 form is not uncommon, and the IRS provides mechanisms for correcting these inaccuracies. Promptly addressing any discrepancies is vital to avoid issues with your tax filing.
If you identify an error, follow these steps:
- Contact the Payer Immediately: The first and most important step is to reach out to the mortgage company that issued the 1099. Clearly explain the discrepancy and provide documentation to support your claim. They are responsible for issuing a corrected form if an error is confirmed.
- Request a Corrected 1099: Ask the mortgage company to issue a corrected 1099 form (often designated as a “Corrected” version). This corrected form will reflect the accurate information and should be sent to both you and the IRS.
- If a Corrected Form is Not Issued: In rare cases where the payer refuses to issue a corrected form, you should still report the income accurately on your tax return based on your records. Attach a statement to your tax return explaining the discrepancy and the reason you are reporting a different amount than what appears on the original 1099. This statement should include details of your communication with the payer.
- Consult Your Tax Professional: If you encounter difficulties in resolving the discrepancy with the payer or are unsure about how to proceed, consult with your tax professional. They can guide you on the best course of action and ensure your tax return is filed correctly despite the error.
For example, if your 1099 shows $5,000 in interest income, but your records indicate you only received $4,000 and the remaining $1,000 was a miscalculated fee, you would contact the mortgage company with your statements. If they issue a corrected 1099 showing $4,000, you use that. If they don’t, you report $4,000 on your return and attach a statement detailing the issue and your attempts to get a corrected form.
Specific Scenarios and Their 1099 Reporting
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Understanding the various types of 1099 forms issued by mortgage companies can demystify complex tax situations. These forms serve as crucial documentation for both the taxpayer and the IRS, detailing specific financial transactions that may have tax implications. By familiarizing yourself with these scenarios, you can proactively manage your tax obligations and ensure accurate reporting.Mortgage-related entities, such as lenders and servicers, are legally required to report certain financial activities to the IRS and to you.
These activities, often related to your mortgage, can generate income or result in debt forgiveness, both of which are taxable events. Recognizing the purpose and implications of each 1099 form is the first step toward confident tax preparation.
1099-INT for Interest Earned on Mortgage Escrows or Impound Accounts
When you have a mortgage, your lender often collects funds for property taxes and homeowner’s insurance through an escrow or impound account. These accounts may earn interest. While this interest might seem minor, it is considered taxable income and must be reported. Mortgage companies are obligated to issue a Form 1099-INT to you and the IRS if the interest earned on these accounts meets a certain threshold, typically $10 or more in a calendar year.This form will detail the amount of interest income you received from your escrow account.
It’s important to note that even if the interest amount is small, it still forms part of your total taxable income for the year. The reporting of this interest helps ensure that all income sources are accounted for on your tax return.
1099-A for Property Acquisition
A Form 1099-A, “Acquisition or Abandonment of Secured Property,” is issued by a lender when they acquire or have reason to know you have abandoned property that secures a mortgage. This typically occurs in foreclosure situations where the lender takes possession of the property. The form reports the fair market value of the property at the time of acquisition or abandonment, as well as the amount of debt you were relieved of.The implications of a 1099-A can be significant.
It may trigger a capital gains tax liability if the debt relief exceeds your adjusted basis in the property. Conversely, it can also be used to determine any potential gain or loss on the sale of the property by the lender. Understanding the figures on this form is critical for accurately reporting any tax consequences.
1099-C for Cancellation of Debt Related to a Mortgage
A Form 1099-C, “Cancellation of Debt,” is issued when a lender cancels or forgives a debt of $600 or more. In the context of a mortgage, this most commonly happens during a loan modification where a portion of the principal is forgiven, or in a short sale or foreclosure where the amount the lender agrees to accept is less than the outstanding loan balance.
The amount of debt forgiven is generally considered taxable income to the borrower.However, there are important exceptions to this rule. For instance, if the cancellation of debt occurs in a bankruptcy proceeding, or if you are insolvent immediately before the debt cancellation, the forgiven amount may not be taxable. It is crucial to consult with a tax professional to determine your specific situation and any applicable exclusions.
The amount of debt forgiven and reported on Form 1099-C is generally treated as income, unless specific exclusions apply.
Comparison of Reporting Requirements for Different Mortgage-Related 1099 Forms
Each 1099 form serves a distinct purpose and carries different reporting requirements. Understanding these differences is key to accurate tax filing.
| Form Type | Issued By | Purpose | Key Information Reported | Potential Tax Implications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1099-INT | Mortgage Servicer | Reporting interest earned on escrow/impound accounts. | Amount of interest paid to the account holder. | Taxable interest income. |
| 1099-A | Lender | Reporting acquisition or abandonment of secured property. | Fair market value of the property, amount of debt discharged. | Potential capital gains tax, gain or loss on property. |
| 1099-C | Lender | Reporting cancellation of debt. | Amount of debt forgiven. | Taxable income from forgiven debt, subject to exclusions. |
By recognizing these distinct reporting requirements, you can better anticipate and manage the tax implications associated with various mortgage-related financial events.
Organizing and Documenting 1099 Income for Tax Preparation

Receiving a 1099 form from your mortgage company, while potentially unexpected, doesn’t have to be a source of tax-time dread. The key to a smooth and stress-free tax filing process lies in meticulous organization and diligent documentation. By establishing a robust system for tracking income and expenses related to these forms, you empower yourself with clarity and control over your financial reporting.
This proactive approach not only simplifies tax preparation but also ensures you’re maximizing eligible deductions and avoiding potential penalties.This section will guide you through the essential steps of creating an effective organizational framework for your 1099 income. We’ll delve into practical strategies for tracking financial transactions, storing vital documentation, and compiling a comprehensive checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a seamless tax filing experience.
Mastering these organizational habits will transform a potentially complex tax situation into a manageable and transparent process.
Creating a Template for Tracking Income and Expenses
A well-structured template is your first line of defense against disorganization. It provides a centralized hub for all financial activity related to your mortgage company 1099s, allowing you to easily monitor income streams and identify deductible expenses. This proactive tracking not only aids in accurate tax reporting but also offers valuable insights into the financial performance of your mortgage-related activities.Consider using a spreadsheet program like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to build your template.
This offers flexibility and powerful sorting and filtering capabilities. At a minimum, your template should include the following columns:
| Date | Description of Transaction | Mortgage Company Name | 1099 Box Amount | Related Expense Category | Expense Amount | Notes/Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| [Date of transaction] | [e.g., Interest paid, Origination fee refund, Loan modification fee] | [Name of the mortgage company issuing the 1099] | [Amount reported in the relevant box of the 1099] | [e.g., Business travel, Office supplies, Professional development] | [Amount of the expense] | [Any relevant context or supporting information] |
This structured approach ensures that every financial event is captured, categorized, and readily accessible when tax season arrives.
Designing a System for Storing Relevant Documentation
Beyond a tracking template, a robust system for storing physical and digital documents is paramount. These documents serve as the irrefutable proof of your income and expenses, safeguarding you against audits and ensuring the accuracy of your tax return. A well-designed system minimizes the risk of lost or misplaced paperwork, saving you time and potential headaches.For physical documents, consider a dedicated filing system.
This could involve:
- Creating separate folders for each tax year.
- Within each year’s folder, establish subfolders for different types of documentation, such as “1099 Forms,” “Mortgage Statements,” “Invoices,” and “Receipts.”
- Use clear and concise labels on all folders and individual documents.
For digital documents, establish a logical folder structure on your computer or cloud storage service. Implement a consistent naming convention for files, incorporating dates and s to facilitate easy retrieval. Regularly back up your digital files to prevent data loss.The types of documentation you should diligently store include:
- All 1099 forms received from mortgage companies.
- Original invoices and receipts for any expenses you plan to deduct.
- Mortgage statements that detail interest paid and other relevant fees.
- Correspondence with the mortgage company that may provide context for the 1099.
Organizing a Checklist of Essential Documents for Tax Filing
A comprehensive checklist acts as your final assurance before submitting your tax return. It ensures that no critical document is overlooked, leading to a more accurate and complete filing. This checklist should be a living document, updated as you encounter new types of income or expenses.Here is a sample checklist of essential documents when receiving 1099s from a mortgage company:
- Completed 1099 forms received from the mortgage company.
- Your tracking template, summarizing all relevant income and expenses.
- Original invoices and receipts for all deductible business expenses.
- Records of any business travel, including mileage logs and lodging receipts.
- Receipts for office supplies, equipment, and home office expenses (if applicable).
- Professional development course materials and receipts.
- Bank statements and credit card statements that corroborate income and expenses.
- Any other documentation that supports the income reported on the 1099 or your claimed deductions.
Maintaining Accurate Records for at Least Three Years
The IRS has specific regulations regarding how long you must retain tax records. For most taxpayers, this period is at least three years from the date you file your return or the due date of the return, whichever is later. This “look-back” period is crucial because it allows the IRS to audit your tax filings if they have concerns.
“Maintaining accurate records for at least three years is not just a recommendation; it’s a legal requirement that protects you from potential penalties and interest charges.”
Failing to produce necessary documentation during an audit can lead to the disallowance of deductions and the imposition of significant fines. By consistently organizing and storing your documents for the required duration, you demonstrate good faith and compliance with tax laws. This diligence not only simplifies potential audits but also provides a solid foundation for future tax planning and financial decision-making.
Conclusive Thoughts: Why Did I Get A 1099 From My Mortgage Company

As we conclude our journey into understanding why you might have received a 1099 from your mortgage company, remember that knowledge is your greatest ally. By grasping the purpose of these forms, recognizing the common reasons for their issuance, and navigating the associated tax implications with care, you can approach your financial responsibilities with peace of mind. Whether it’s for services rendered, referral fees, or commissions, the key lies in accurate record-keeping, diligent tax reporting, and seeking professional guidance when needed.
May this understanding empower you to manage your finances with clarity and confidence, ensuring that every financial interaction is met with informed action.
Essential Questionnaire
What is the primary purpose of a 1099 form from a mortgage company?
The primary purpose is to report income paid to you by the mortgage company that is not considered wages from employment. This ensures that both you and the IRS are aware of the income earned.
Can a 1099 from a mortgage company be for services I provided as an individual homeowner?
Generally, no. A 1099 from a mortgage company is typically for services rendered as an independent contractor or for specific types of income like referral fees, not for services you receive as a homeowner (e.g., making mortgage payments).
What’s the difference between a 1099-MISC and a 1099-NEC?
A 1099-MISC is used for miscellaneous income, while a 1099-NEC is specifically for non-employee compensation, which is more common for independent contractor services.
Do I have to pay self-employment tax on income reported on a 1099 from my mortgage company?
Yes, if the 1099 is for services rendered as an independent contractor (reported on a 1099-NEC or box 7 of a 1099-MISC), you are generally responsible for paying self-employment taxes (Social Security and Medicare) in addition to income tax.
What if the information on my 1099 from the mortgage company is incorrect?
You should contact the mortgage company that issued the 1099 immediately to request a corrected form. If they cannot provide one, you will need to report the income accurately on your tax return and potentially attach an explanation.