Freelancing & Gig Economy
Freelancing & Gig Economy, Income & Career
1099 vs. W-2 for Holiday Gig Work: What the IRS Rules Show About Your Taxes
The 2026 Form 1099-NEC threshold rose to $2,000 under the OBBBA — but that's a paperwork change, not a tax exemption. IRS rules require reporting all gig income regardless of whether you received a form. A 1099 holiday worker owes 15.3% self-employment tax on 92.35% of net earnings; a W-2 worker's employer covers half. Here's what the IRS classification rules show about the real difference between 1099 and W-2 holiday gig work.
September 19, 2026
Freelancing & Gig Economy, Income & Career
Workplace Benefits Open Enrollment 2026 Checklist: What to Review Before It Closes
BLS data shows 72% of workers have retirement plan access — but only 53% participate. For medical plans: 72% access, 45% participation. Meanwhile, the IRS raised 2026 401(k) limits to $24,500, HSA self-only to $4,400, and Health FSA to $3,400. Here's what the IRS and BLS data shows about reviewing every item on your open enrollment checklist before the deadline closes.
