Business & Tax
Form W-9
Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification
Plain-English answer: A W-9 gives a business the name and taxpayer identification information it may need for information reporting.
Why did I get Form W-9?
A business may ask for it when it needs your taxpayer information for records or a possible information return such as a 1099.
What do I do next?
Give the completed form to the person or business that requested it. Use the current IRS form and instructions.
Does Form W-9 need to be notarized?
No, the federal W-9 itself does not normally require notarization.
Where does it go?
Usually to the business or payer that requested it, not mailed by you to the IRS.
Official sourcehttps://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-9
Forms and rules can change. Check the current official instructions before acting.
Still not sure?
Tell us the form number, who sent it and what you are trying to do. We can help with administrative steps or point you to the right kind of professional when the question needs legal or tax advice.
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