1099's and W-9s

[Gaetano Citera]

Hello,

This was my first year flipping houses and I am now finishing my books for tax season. I am aware I need W-9s and 1099s for each contractor I paid over $600 that is not operating under a corporation. My question is how can I tell what kind of business a contractor is operating? Is there an easy way to tell or do I have to approach each contractor and ask?

I am definitely now learning that it is much easier to request a w-9 before paying anyone...