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1099-DIVDividends and Distributions

Reports dividends from stocks, mutual funds, or ETFs, including qualified dividends taxed at lower rates.

Who needs to file this form

Brokerages and fund companies send a 1099-DIV if they paid you $10 or more in dividends or capital gain distributions during the year. This applies to anyone who owns dividend-paying stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, or REITs in a taxable (non-retirement) account.

Key Deadlines

Brokerage must send 1099-DIV to you

January 31, 2027

May be included in a consolidated 1099 (often arrives mid-February)

Report on your tax return

April 15, 2027

Step-by-Step Filing Guide

1

Collect 1099-DIVs from all brokerages

Each brokerage sends a 1099-DIV or consolidated statement. Check all accounts: Fidelity, Schwab, Vanguard, Robinhood, etc. Consolidated statements may arrive later than January 31 (corrections through mid-February are common).

2

Distinguish ordinary vs. qualified dividends

Box 1a shows total ordinary dividends. Box 1b shows qualified dividends (a subset of Box 1a). Qualified dividends are taxed at preferential capital gains rates (0%, 15%, or 20%) rather than your ordinary income rate. You must have held the stock for 60+ days to qualify.

3

Report on Form 1040

Report ordinary dividends (Box 1a) on Form 1040, Line 3b. Qualified dividends (Box 1b) go on Line 3a. If total ordinary dividends exceed $1,500, you must also complete Schedule B.

4

Check for capital gain distributions

Box 2a shows capital gain distributions from mutual funds. These are long-term capital gains even if you didn't sell any shares. Report on Schedule D. Boxes 4-7 may show foreign taxes paid, which can be claimed as a credit.

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Tax education only. Based on IRS form instructions and publications. Not tax advice.