FIRE to IRIS Migration Made Easy with TaxZerone
Upload your existing FIRE (P1220) files while TaxZerone automatically converts them into IRIS format, validates the data for accuracy, and securely submits them to the IRS.
No complex migration process. No manual rework. No filing disruptions
50,000+
SOC 2
99%
What is the FIRE-to-IRIS transition?
If your business files 1099s electronically, you have been using the IRS FIRE (Filing Information Returns Electronically) system. The IRS is shutting it down in December 2026. After that, all electronic information returns must be filed through IRIS (Information Returns Intake System), which uses a different file format.
FIRE — RETIRING
DECEMBER 2026
FIRE METHOD
FIRE accepts fixed-width text files (.txt) with records structured to IRS Publication 1220 specifications.
It has been the standard since the 1990s. Most in-house and third-party payroll systems output this format natively.
IRIS — REQUIRED
FROM JANUARY 2027
IRIS METHOD
IRIS filing may require an IRIS TCC depending on whether you file directly or through a third-party transmitter.
TaxZerone can help guide or support the applicable TCC-based workflow.
From FIRE file to IRIS Submission in three steps
No new systems to learn. No engineering sprints. TaxZerone fits into how your team already works.
How it works:
Step 1: Upload Your FIRE file:
Upload the same Publication 1220 fixed-width text files
Step 2: Convert FIRE Files to IRIS XML:
TaxZerone converts your FIRE data into IRIS-compatible XML and validates every record for accuracy. Errors are flagged before submission so you can review and correct them in advance
Step 3: Secure IRS Submission :
Your validated filings are securely submitted to the IRS through the IRIS system. You receive real-time confirmation and a tracking record for every submission.
Every Major information return, covered
Confirm your specific forms are supported before you start. TaxZerone handles the full range of IRS information returns filed through FIRE today.
What the FIRE Shutdown Means for you?
Without a transition plan, the IRS deadline creates real engineering cost, filing risk, and penalty exposure. Here's the difference TaxZerone makes.
Challenge | With TaxZerone | Without TaxZerone |
|---|---|---|
| System changes | Compatible with your existing FIRE workflow | Requires updates or rebuild of existing FIRE filing systems |
| Engineering effort | Significantly reduced engineering effort for IRIS transition | High developer involvement for IRIS transition |
| File Handling | Uses existing FIRE files as-is | FIRE fixed-width files must be manually adapted |
| Conversion Process | Automatic FIRE → IRIS XML conversion | Manual or error-prone conversion to IRIS format |
| XML Validation | Built-in IRIS XML validation for every record | Manual checks or third-party tools needed |
| IRIS TCC | Guidance/support for IRIS TCC-based submission workflow | Businesses must manage Transmitter Control Code setup separately |
| State Filing | Streamlined workflow for federal + state alignment | Separate handling required for state + federal filings |
| IRS Submission | Direct submission to the Internal Revenue Service via IRIS | Manual upload or separate tools required |
| Error Detection | Issues flagged before submission during validation | Errors often found after submission or IRS rejection |
| Timeline | Login, upload and file — same day | Takes 6–12 months for development, testing and deployment |
| Penalty Exposure | File through IRIS on time to reduce compliance risk and avoid disruptions. | Late filings can result in IRS penalties of $60–$340 per form |
Built by tax filing specialists, not generalists
- Trusted experience in IRS e-filing
Exercise of an Incentive Stock Option Under Section 422(b)
- SOC 2 Type II certified infrastructure
TaxZerone undergoes independent third-party audits of its security controls. Your taxpayer data and filing records are protected by the same standards used by enterprise financial services providers.
- 50,000+ businesses have filed through our platform
From mid-market enterprises to payroll bureaus handling millions of forms, our platform has processed large-volume FIRE submissions at scale — and is fully equipped for IRIS at the same volume.
- Active IRS compliance monitoring
Our compliance team tracks IRS schema updates, TCC policy changes, and IRIS release notes continuously. When the IRS updates its specifications, your filings stay accurate without any action from you.
Everything Handled. Nothing Rebuilt
Top reasons businesses choose TaxZerone to manage their IRIS transition without disruption.
No Changes to Your Existing System
Your FIRE file generation process stays exactly as-is. TaxZerone works directly with the output your current system already produces — no modifications, no rebuild, no new dependencies
Seamless FIRE to IRIS Conversion
TaxZerone automatically converts FIRE fixed-width files into valid IRIS XML on every upload. No manual mapping, no spreadsheet gymnastics, no third-party conversion tools required.
First Used Month (FUM) of a vehicleBuilt-in Validation for Every Record
Every record is checked against IRS schema rules before submission. Errors and missing fields are flagged early so your team can review and correct them before a rejection ever occurs.
Direct, Secure IRS Submission
Files are submitted directly to the Internal Revenue Service through the IRIS system. You receive real-time acknowledgment and a full submission record for every batch filed
Reduced Compliance Risk
Automated validation, structured processing, and an always-current IRS schema mean fewer filing errors, fewer late submissions, and a dramatically lower risk of the $60–$340 per-form penalty
Expert Support When You Need It
Get access to dedicated support throughout your IRIS transition. TaxZerone’s experts help answer technical questions, resolve filing issues, and ensure your migration stays smooth from start to finish.
Who uses TaxZerone for IRIS Migration?
TaxZerone serves businesses and service providers that file information returns at volume and need a clean, low-risk path to IRIS compliance.
Larger Businesses & Enterprises
Large organizations filing 1099s, forms at scale, with dedicated payroll or finance teams.
Mid-size businesses
Growing businesses with increasing filing volumes that need a reliable way to transition from FIRE to IRIS without investing in costly system upgrades or engineering resources.
Payroll & Tax Bureaus
Service bureaus processing returns on behalf of multiple clients who need bulk FIRE-to-IRIS handling
Accounting & CPA Firms
CPA and tax advisory firms managing information return filings for business clients across industries.
Tax Filing Service Providers
Third-party tax service providers managing electronic filing for multiple clients who need scalable, compliant, and automated IRIS submission workflows.
Banks & Financial Institutions
Banks, credit unions, and brokerages filing 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-B at high volume with strict IRS formatting requirements.
Software Vendors
ISVs and SaaS platforms whose products output FIRE files. Add IRIS submission without rebuilding your filing pipeline or managing an IRS TCC yourself
Direct FIRE Filers
Businesses that have filed directly with the IRS through FIRE for years and need a straight replacement before the December 2026 shutdown.
Trusted by Over 50,000 Businesses
- Micheal Smith
Filing Operations, Large Payroll Bureau
-Sandra Davis
VP Finance, Mid-Market Enterprise
-David Willimas
Partner, CPA & Tax Advisory Firm
The FIRE deadline is December 2026. Your transition can start today.
Login, upload your existing FIRE files, and file through IRIS — without touching your current system or waiting on engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I migrate from FIRE to IRIS?
What is the difference between FIRE and IRIS?
- FIRE (Filing Information Returns Electronically) is the IRS’s legacy filing system that uses fixed-width text files for submitting information returns.
- IRIS (Information Returns Intake System) is the newer IRS filing platform that uses XML-based structured files for electronic submissions.