Question: what happens if you don't get your 1099 by january 31?
Answer: The IRS matches 1099s with your tax return; if you fail to report one, it will pursue you for taxes owed. The deadline to mail 1099s to taxpayers is Jan. 31. You are responsible for paying the taxes you owe even if you don't get the form from a payer, so make sure to include those earnings in your tax return.