How to Upload FIRE-Format Files to BoomTax

Overview

BoomTax accepts IRS FIRE-format files (also known as Pub. 1220 flat files). Even though the IRS is transitioning from FIRE to IRIS, you can continue uploading your existing FIRE-format files to BoomTax. We convert them to IRIS XML automatically.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Log in to your BoomTax account.
  2. Click "Start a New Filing" (or open an existing filing).
  3. Choose your 1099 filing type (e.g., 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, etc.).
  4. Select "Import from IRS FIRE File, QuickBooks Online, Xero & more..."
  5. Choose the "IRS FIRE" option from the import sources.
  6. Drag and drop your Pub. 1220 data file, or click to browse.
  7. BoomTax will parse your file and create the individual forms automatically.

Important Notes

  • One form type at a time. Each FIRE file upload handles one form type (NEC, MISC, DIV, INT, etc.). If you have multiple form types, upload each file separately into its own filing.
  • File format. Your file should follow the IRS Publication 1220 specification — the same fixed-width text format you've always used with FIRE.
  • No XML conversion needed. You do not need to convert your file to IRIS XML format. BoomTax handles the conversion to IRIS XML behind the scenes when your filing is e-filed.
  • Review after import. After uploading, review the imported forms to make sure everything looks correct before e-filing.

What Happens After Upload?

Once your FIRE-format data is imported:

  1. BoomTax parses the T/A/B/C/F records from your file.
  2. Individual forms are created in your filing.
  3. You can review, edit, or add forms as needed.
  4. When you click "E-File," BoomTax converts the data to IRS IRIS XML and submits it.

Your filing status updates work the same way — you'll see Submitting, Accepted, or any errors in your dashboard.

Supported Form Types

The FIRE file importer supports all 1099 form types that BoomTax files: 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-K, 1099-R, 1099-B, 1099-C, 1099-SA, and W-2G.

Troubleshooting

  • "Unrecognized file format" — Make sure your file follows the IRS Pub. 1220 specification. Files from non-standard sources may need reformatting.
  • "Wrong form type" — The form type in your FIRE file must match the filing type you selected (e.g., don't upload a NEC file into a MISC filing).
  • Missing data — Some optional fields in Pub. 1220 may not map to all BoomTax fields. Review your forms after import to fill in any gaps.

Need help? Contact our support team and we'll walk you through the upload process.

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