New Rules and Lower Thresholds Put Freelancers, Gig Workers, and Online Sellers at Greater Audit Risk
IRVINE, CA / ACCESS Newswire / June 9, 2025 / The IRS is tightening its focus on digital payments and third-party transactions in 2025 - and many taxpayers may not be prepared. According to Clear Start Tax, a national leader in tax resolution, individuals receiving income through platforms like Venmo, PayPal, Etsy, and eBay could face new scrutiny as the IRS expands its oversight of 1099-K forms and enforces a much lower reporting threshold.
Key IRS Changes Affecting Digital Income in 2025
Under updated IRS rules, third-party payment processors must now issue a 1099-K for total transactions exceeding $600 annually - a steep drop from the previous $20,000 threshold. That change significantly broadens the number of taxpayers who will receive tax documents for digital income they may not have previously reported.
Clear Start Tax explains that the new rules aim to reduce underreporting and close the tax gap-but they also put part-time sellers, freelancers, and side-hustlers in the IRS's spotlight.
"The IRS is no longer just looking at traditional income sources," said the Head of Client Solutions at Clear Start Tax. "Anyone who uses payment apps or sells online-even casually-could now find themselves facing unexpected tax bills or even audit risk."
Taxpayers Most Likely to Be Affected
This shift affects a wide range of Americans, not just full-time business owners. Clear Start Tax identifies the following groups as most vulnerable to missteps or enforcement:
Freelancers and gig workers who use apps like Uber, DoorDash, or TaskRabbit
Part-time sellers on Etsy, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or similar platforms
Individuals using Venmo or PayPal for side income or informal work
People unaware that even small-scale digital income is taxable
Failing to accurately report these earnings or ignoring a 1099-K entirely can trigger IRS notices, penalties, or audits.
See if you qualify for relief through the IRS Fresh Start Program by completing a free Tax Relief Survey today. It only takes a few minutes to take the first step toward resolution.
Why Documentation Matters More Than Ever
Taxpayers receiving 1099-K forms may find themselves confused about how much of that total is truly taxable. Without good recordkeeping, it becomes difficult to separate personal transfers from income, or subtract legitimate business expenses.
"We've seen clients receive 1099-K forms for transactions that weren't income at all," said the Head of Client Solutions. "That's why it's critical to keep clear records and respond properly - because the IRS assumes the full amount is taxable unless proven otherwise."
How Clear Start Tax Helps Digital Earners Stay Compliant
As these reporting rules evolve, Clear Start Tax provides essential support for taxpayers navigating the new landscape. The firm helps clients:
Review and reconcile 1099-K income before filing
Identify deductible business expenses to reduce tax liability
Respond to IRS notices and resolve discrepancies
Set up payment plans or pursue relief if taxes are owed
Clear Start Tax emphasizes early intervention as the best way to avoid penalties and keep digital earners on track with IRS expectations.
About Clear Start Tax
Clear Start Tax is a full-service tax liability resolution firm that serves taxpayers throughout the United States. The company specializes in assisting individuals and businesses with a wide range of IRS and state tax issues, including back taxes, wage garnishment relief, IRS appeals, and offers in compromise. Clear Start Tax helps taxpayers apply for the IRS Fresh Start Program, providing expert guidance in tax resolution. Fully accredited and A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau, the firm's unique approach and commitment to long-term client success distinguish it as a leader in the tax resolution industry.
Need Help With Back Taxes?
Click the link below:
https://clearstarttax.com/qualifytoday/
Contact Information
Clear Start Tax
Corporate Communications Department
seo@clearstarttax.com
(949) 535-1627
SOURCE: Clear Start Tax
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:
https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/clear-start-tax-warns-irs-targets-digital-payments-and-1099-k-fi-1036530
