When do i fill out a w9

And if you get an email from the IRS, it's definitely a phishing attempt, and you should forward the email to phishing irs.

The IRS doesn't initiate contact with taxpayers via email. W-9 forms are for independent contractors, also called freelancers. It's important to fill out the form correctly—but only if you're sure it's the right form to submit and the request is legit. Internal Revenue Service. Accessed Feb. Income Tax.

Small Business Taxes. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for Investopedia. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.

These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data. We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. Your Money. Personal Finance. Your Practice. Popular Courses. Article Sources. Investopedia requires writers to use primary sources to support their work. These include white papers, government data, original reporting, and interviews with industry experts.

We also reference original research from other reputable publishers where appropriate. You can learn more about the standards we follow in producing accurate, unbiased content in our editorial policy. You have two options in this section. If you are a sole proprietor, you could use either number, but your SSN is preferable. Again, you may want to check with your tax advisor or contact the IRS directly to double check your information.

Providing an incorrect TIN can cause issues with your payments or tax return. It can also lead to future backup withholding. This is where you sign and date the form, indicating that you provided your accurate information. Again, keep your safety in mind when completing and sending a W Before you even fill it out, verify that the request for your form is legitimate.

Also make sure to send the completed form properly. Use a secure method of delivery, like hand delivery, mail or encrypted file attachment. A W-4 form requires some of the same information as a W-9, like your name, address and Social Security number. These forms also request information on tax exemptions.

Employers use the completed W-4 to determine how much to withhold from your paycheck for federal income taxes. The and W-9 forms go hand in hand.

If you're unsure why you're being asked to complete the form, ask what types of tax documents you can expect to receive when the information is used. Make sure the person taking your information is authorized to do so. You should always exercise caution when giving out sensitive information like your name, address, SSN or EIN so take steps to transmit W-9 information securely.

Protect the confidential information by sending it via an encrypted email, by hand delivery, or by mail. You might have other questions as you complete a Form W-9, so download the instructions with the form. Visit IRS. Thank you for listening! Normal mode. Edit mode.

Check System. Send us your comment! Share this presentation. Share the current section. Outline Transcript Links Bios show diag. Apart from freelancers, professional consultants, trade workers and independent contractors, the W-9 tax form has to be completed for any income earned on mortgage interest paid by individuals, specific real estate transactions and dividends paid out to shareholders.

The W-9 form is an Internal Revenue Service tax form that is used by independent contractors and other self-employed workers that signals the taxpayer is not subject to backup withholding and is responsible for paying his or her own taxes.

It also serves as a guide in completing a contractor's tax obligations for the calendar year. To stay on the safe side, save a copy of the W-9 form for your own records. You can use it to contact a client if you are missing the MISC come tax time. You can unsubscribe at any time by contacting us at help freshbooks. We use analytics cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.