The W-8BEN and W-8BEN-E forms are essential for foreign independent contractors and businesses. They help verify the contractor's country of tax residence, enabling them to claim deductions or exemptions from US taxes.
Foreign vendors do not complete the Substitute Form W-9; foreign persons or entities must submit one of five available forms. The vendor must determine the one most appropriate to their United States tax status for reportable transactions.
However, the IRS doesn't require a company to withhold taxes or report any income from an international contractor if the contractor is not a U.S. citizen and the services provided are outside the U.S. filing forms 1099 is required if: The contractor is located internationally but is a U.S. citizen.
IRS Form W-8BEN or IRS Form W-8BEN-E You will need to collect information and file Form W-8BEN for any foreign individuals you contract with over the course of the tax year. If you contract with a foreign company or self-employed workers who operate under a business entity, you'll need to collect IRS Form W-8BEN-E.
Essentially, this form helps prevent double taxation and ensures the proper application of tax treaty benefits or exemptions for foreign individuals. A U.S. employer should request a W-8BEN from non-U.S. citizen employees or international contractors.
If the owner of the disregarded entity is a foreign person, the owner must complete an appropriate Form W-8 instead of a Form W-9.
However, the IRS doesn't require a company to withhold taxes or report any income from an international contractor if the contractor is not a U.S. citizen and the services provided are outside the U.S. filing forms 1099 is required if: The contractor is located internationally but is a U.S. citizen.
A W9 from vendors is not required when payments will be less than $600 in a calendar year, but it is a good idea to request a W9 from all vendors. Also a W9 is not required when payments are not associated with conducting a trade or business.
Foreign vendors do not complete the Substitute Form W-9; foreign persons or entities must submit one of five available forms. The vendor must determine the one most appropriate to their United States tax status for reportable transactions.
Foreign independent contractors must submit IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E to certify their foreign status and claim any applicable tax treaty benefits. The US company may also need to file Form 1099-NEC if certain conditions are met, though this is more common for domestic contractors.