W9 Form Download ↓

W9 Form Information, Download and More:

Are you an independent contractor? Do you work for yourself? Perhaps you are a freelancer? If you have answered "Yes" to either of these 3 questions then guess what... You will need a W9 Form.

The W9 Form is one of the many IRS (Internal Revenue Service) forms, however this is the one that is needed to report your SSN (Social Security Number) or EIN (Employer Identification Number). This particular IRS (Internal Revenue Service) form is as simple as it gets when it comes to government forms, particularly the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). All you'll need to do is fill in your first name, last name, address and Social or Employer Identification Number.

As well as providing the information as mentioned above, you will also be asked if you happen to be subject to "backup withholding".

What is "backup withholding"? And how much is held?

It is a flat 28% withholding on payments made to you/your business under some circumstances.

What are the circumstances for using backup withholding?

There is 2 circumstances for using backup withholding. The first circumstance is if your name and social security number (SSN) do not match with the name and social security number (SSN) that the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) has on file for you. The second circumstance is if you have an outstanding IRS (Internal Revenue Service) tax debt and if you do the IRS will have already notified you to let you know that you're subject to backup withholding.

In general a business that is asking you for a W9 Form is one that pays you, as an independent contractor, a reportable income.

If you ever feel that a W9 Form has been requested from you from an odd source, make sure you ask them why they need the form and what they'll be using it for and of course it never hurts to consult with an accountant.