What is the best way to confirm the reportability of a vendor for 1099 purposes?

Obtaining a completed form W-9 from the vendor is the most reliable method for confirming the reportability of a vendor for 1099 purposes. The W-9 form provides essential information about the vendor, including their name, address, and taxpayer identification number (TIN). By having this form, the payer can verify that the vendor is registered with the IRS and ensure they have the accurate details necessary for filing the 1099 form correctly.

Using vendor reviews online or consulting other customers may provide anecdotal evidence of a vendor's legitimacy, but they do not provide the official documentation required for tax purposes. Contacting the vendor directly might result in receiving confirmation or additional information, but without the W-9, it lacks the formal assurance needed to meet IRS requirements. Therefore, the completed W-9 is the best and most compliant method to establish proper vendor reporting for taxation.