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Internal Revenue Service (IRS)TaxGuide

W-9 — Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification

The form a US client asks you for so they can report what they pay you: name, tax classification, address and SSN or EIN.

Open the official source

The form is downloaded and submitted on the authority's website.

What this form is for

  • Give your taxpayer identification number (SSN, ITIN or EIN) and tax classification to a business or bank that pays you reportable amounts.
  • Freelancers, consultants and contractors fill it out when a client asks for it.

Documents to have ready

  • Your Social Security number (SSN), ITIN or employer identification number (EIN)
  • Your business's exact legal name if it differs from yours

Where to send it

You give the W-9 to whoever requested it (client, bank), never to the IRS.

Our tips

  • Always download the latest version from the official site: federal forms are updated regularly.
  • Read the official instructions that come with the form before you start.
  • Keep a copy of everything you send, with the date you sent it.

Frequently asked questions

I'm not a US person: do I fill out a W-9?
Generally no: the W-9 is for US persons. Non-residents usually fill out a W-8 form (W-8BEN for individuals). Check the IRS website.

The information on this page is general. If in doubt, the official source prevails.

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