De542 2025

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The document is a report form for independent contractors (DE 542) that must be completed by businesses or government entities (service-recipients) when they engage independent contractors (service-providers) for services valued at $600 or more. It outlines the required information to be reported, including personal details of both parties, contract dates, and amounts. The report must be submitted to the Employment Development Department (EDD) within 20 days of payment or contract initiation. Instructions for completing and submitting the form are also provided.

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Click ‘Get Form’ to open the DE 542 in the editor.
Begin by filling out the Service-Recipient section. Enter the business or government entity's name, federal ID number, CA employer account number, and contact details including address and phone number.
Next, move to the Service-Provider section. Input the independent contractor's first name, middle initial, last name, and social security number. Ensure accuracy as this information is crucial for reporting.
Fill in the contract details: start date, expiration date (if applicable), and amount of contract. If the contract is ongoing, check the appropriate box.
Review all entered information for completeness and accuracy before submitting. Use our platform’s features to save your progress or make edits as needed.

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Versions	Form popularity	Fillable & printable
2017	4.8 Satisfied (103 Votes)
2014	4.3 Satisfied (122 Votes)
2012	4.4 Satisfied (189 Votes)

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Do I have to report 1099 income to EDD?

Any business or government entity that is required to file a federal Nonemployee Compensation Form (1099-NEC) or a Miscellaneous Information Form (1099-MISC) for services received from an independent contractor is required to report specific independent contractor information to the Employment Development Department (

How do I report a 1099 to EDD?

How to Report Download a fill-in DE 542 (PDF) form. Order the DE 542 form from our Online Forms and Publications. Use the DE 542 Print Specifications (PDF) to generate an alternate form. Call the Taxpayer Assistance Center at 1-888-745-3886 to obtain a form. Create your own form with all of the required information.

Can a 1099 employee collect unemployment in California?

If youre self-employed or an independent contractor, you are not automatically eligible because your employer you didnt pay the taxes that fund the UI program. Youll be eligible only if you worked as an employee within the previous 18 months for a company that paid into the system on your behalf.

What is a DE 542 form?

WHO MUST REPORT: Any business or government entity (defined as a Service-Recipient) that is required to file a federal Form 1099-MISC for service performed by an independent contractor (defined as a Service-Provider) must report.

What is the new law in California regarding independent contractors?

Californias AB5 and Independent Contractors The law codified the ABC test in the landmark court decision in the so-called Dynamex case. Under AB5, any worker is presumed to be an employee. The employer has the burden to prove that the worker should be classified as an independent contractor.

What happens if I dont report earnings to EDD?

Once you are eligible and receiving benefit payments, you must report any income you received, or that you have returned to work. If you dont, it could result in an overpayment, penalties, and a false statement disqualification.

What income does not need to be reported to EDD?

If your weekly earnings are $100 or less, the first $25 do not apply. Any amount over $25 is subtracted from your weekly benefit amount and you are paid the difference, if any.

Does a 1099 contractor need a business license in California?

Yes, if you are not paid as an employee, you are considered an independent contractor and are required to have a business license.

De542 2025

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