1099-Misc Form w/ Wrong SS#

[dark_daze]

I got a settlement check with a 1099-Misc but the 1099 has the wrong social security number on it. I tried to get ahold of the payer but no luck. So my first question is, is this okay to cash/ deposit at my bank? And two, if I can't get ahold of the payer is there another way for me to get this 1099 corrected before I file?

[MargaretL · Accepted solution]

Yes, you can cash the check and report the form 1099-Misc. (I am assuming here it is your settlement money).  However, if the SSN is not corrected, I recommend that you print and mail your tax return and attach an explanation to the IRS. Mention the wrong social security number and steps you took to contact the payer so that it could be corrected. 

[dark_daze]

Thank You. The settlement money is mine from a case I was involved in a few years ago. But, it has my maiden name and the SSN is completely wrong, not just a few number typos but the whole thing. It's a large amount (nearly $20k), so I'm just worried about cashing it before I get this worked out with the payer or the IRS. Anyhow, thank you for the suggestion