What is a 1099-C and why did I receive this?

When you make a settlement with a credit card company, the amount of forgiven or cancelled debt is considered income and is reported to the IRS. A 1099-C, or cancellation of debt tax notice, reports the amount of money you need to include on your tax return. For example, if you settle $50,000 in debt with your credit card company you might still owe the IRS $20,000 in taxes - and the IRS is not as forgiving as the credit card companies. *There is an exception for mortgage debt cancelled on your primary residence as this cancelled debt is not considered income.