Request for Taxpayer Identification Number (W-9): Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to use the W-9 form to collect verified tax information from vendors and contractors for your business reporting.
This is a process used by businesses to collect the necessary tax identification information from the people or companies they hire.
Who it's for
This is for any business that engages with vendors or independent contractors.
What you get
By using this form, you receive verified tax information from your contractors. This information is used for your official tax reporting purposes.
What it costs you
There is no direct monetary fee to use this form. However, it does require administrative time to collect the documents and keep them securely stored.
The catch to know
To avoid issues with tax reporting later, you should always collect a completed W-9 from a contractor before you make their first payment.
How to apply
- Locate the official form provided by the government.
- Send the form to your vendor or contractor to be filled out.
- Collect the completed document and store it safely.
- Use the information provided for your required tax filings.