Instructions for Forms 1040 and 1040-SR

The United States Government Publishing Office, on behalf of Customer Services, is soliciting bids for the production and distribution of Instructions for Forms 1040 and 1040-SR (Rev. 2026). The scope of work involves the proofing, conventional offset printing, and binding of approximately 1,260,648 saddle-stitched self-cover pamphlets, along with 200 blue label copies and 10 agency copies. The contractor is responsible for electronic prepress, processing distribution files, packaging, and shipping. Key milestones include the delivery of soft proofs by December 30, 2026, and a phased distribution schedule starting January 15, 2027, and concluding January 22, 2027. Strict packaging and marking requirements are mandated, including the use of corrugated containers with specific bursting and edge crush strengths, maximum weight limits of 32 pounds per carton, and the application of IRS Form 6153 labels. The contractor must be an approved USPS Full Service Intelligent Mail Package Barcode provider. Quality assurance is governed by GPO Pub. 310.1, with specific attribute levels for printing and finishing. Bids must be submitted via email to bids@gpo.gov by October 27, 2026, and must include total costs for the estimated quantity, as well as rates for additional copies and page count adjustments. Payment is processed through the GPO fax gateway or via mail, with a requirement to notify the IRS upon invoice submission.