What Is Form 1098-E Used For?
Form 1098-E is used to report student loan interest of $600 or more received by a financial institution, governmental unit, or educational institution from an individual borrower. To be reportable, the student loan must be treated as such under a specific federal, state, or local program, or be used solely to pay qualified higher education expenses.
Who Should Use Form 1098-E?
Form 1098-E is filed by any person, institution, or organization that receives a student loan interest of $600 or more during one year of trade or business. Also, the $600 threshold applies separately for each lender. So, if a borrower pays interest to multiple lenders, each lender must file Form 1098-E if their individual interest received meets or exceeds $600.
Furthermore, this form is used by the borrower to claim tax deductions on their income tax return.
When Is Form 1098-E Due?
Form 1098-E due date is by February 28th with the IRS. However, you must furnish a copy to the borrower by January 31st after the year in which the student loan in question was received.
If any of these dates fall on a federal holiday or a weekend, the deadline is pushed to the next business day. Furthermore, if you file Form 1098-E with the IRS electronically, your deadline is extended to March 31st.
What Happens If Form 1098-E Is Not Submitted?
If Form 1098-E isn't submitted correctly or on time, you may face standard information return penalties. Penalty amounts vary based on how late the filing is, ranging from $60 per return for minor delays up to $680 per return for intentional disregard. The IRS also charges interest on unpaid penalties until the balance is settled. Verify current penalty amounts with the IRS, as these figures are adjusted periodically for inflation.
How and Where Do I File Form 1098-E?
You should file Form 1098-E with the IRS and furnish a copy to the borrower as well. To submit an information return to the IRS, you should use one of the addresses provided on the website and attach Form 1096, which acts as a summary and a transmittal document.
Alternatively, you can file Form 1098-E electronically, using the Information Return Intake System (IRIS). If you’re filing more than ten returns in a year, you must use the electronic method; otherwise, you’re encouraged to do so, but not obligated.