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Report Pooled Tips on Taxes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Amanda Wells
Amanda Wells

Tax Content Lead · 7/20/2026

To report pooled tips on taxes, use Form 4137 to report unreported tip income and include tips from all employers in the 'Other Income' section (Form 1040, Line 21); do not report pooled tips on Form 8027, as this form is for large food/beverage establishments only. Reporting pooled tips on taxes can be a complex process, but it's essential for tipped employees to accurately report their income.

Reporting Pooled Tips on Your Tax Return

To report pooled tips on your tax return, you'll need to use Form 4137 to report unreported tip income. This form is used to report tips that were not reported to your employer. You'll also need to include tips from all employers in the 'Other Income' section (Form 1040, Line 21). Do not report pooled tips on Form 8027, as this form is for large food/beverage establishments only (https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8027).

  1. Use Form 4137 to report unreported tip income
  2. Include tips from all employers in the 'Other Income' section (Form 1040, Line 21)
  3. Do not report pooled tips on Form 8027

Calculating Pooled Tips

To calculate pooled tips, you'll need to add up tips from all employers. Include tips of $20+ per month per employer in your calculation. Keep accurate records of pooled tips to ensure accurate reporting. You can find more information on calculating pooled tips on the IRS website (https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc158).

  1. Calculate total pooled tips for the year by adding tips from all employers
  2. Include tips of $20+ per month per employer in your calculation
  3. Keep accurate records of pooled tips to ensure accurate reporting

Options for Reporting Pooled Tips

You have two options for reporting pooled tips: you can report them on Form 4137 (annual report) or on Form 1040, Line 21 (annual report). If you're unsure about which option is best for you, consult a tax professional for guidance on reporting pooled tips.

  1. Report pooled tips on Form 4137 (annual report)
  2. Report pooled tips on Form 1040, Line 21 (annual report)

Important Deadlines and Thresholds

The deadline for filing Form 4137 is April 15th of the following year. The deadline for filing Form 1040 is also April 15th of the following year. You'll need to report pooled tips of $20+ per month per employer. You can find more information on deadlines and thresholds on the IRS website (https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc152).

FormDeadlineThreshold
Form 4137April 15th of the following yearNone
Form 1040April 15th of the following year$20+ per month per employer

Key Takeaways

Key Takeaways

  • Report pooled tips on Form 4137 or Form 1040, Line 21
  • Calculate total pooled tips for the year by adding tips from all employers
  • Keep accurate records of pooled tips to ensure accurate reporting

What is the deadline for filing Form 4137?

The deadline for filing Form 4137 is April 15th of the following year.

What is the deadline for filing Form 1040?

The deadline for filing Form 1040 is also April 15th of the following year.

How do I report pooled tips on my tax return?

You can report pooled tips on Form 4137 or Form 1040, Line 21.

Consult the IRS website (https://www.irs.gov/) or contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 for assistance with reporting pooled tips on your tax return.

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Informational only — not tax advice. Verify with a qualified professional or the IRS before acting on it.