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.
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.
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.
A foreign person, including a U.S. branch of a foreign person that is treated as a U.S. person under Regulations section 1.1441-1(b)(2)(iv) or a foreign branch of a U.S. financial institution that is a QI, may not provide a Form W-9.
Form 1099 is used to report payments made to an independent contractor. Expat business owners may need to file Form 1099 when working with contractors abroad. Failing to file Form 1099 as required could result in penalties.
Form 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC: If your business pays a foreign contractor with a temporary TIN (ITIN) $600 or more for services provided within the United States, then you can file Form 1099-NEC or Form 1099-MISC to report these payments to the IRS.
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.
Today, it's possible to hire independent contractors from any part of the world, thanks to improvements in technology and communications. It's a great idea to consider Mexico if you're looking to expand your team. Its proximity and strong economic ties to the US are definite advantages.
In sum, hiring someone living abroad as an independent contractor or as an employee is possible but comes with due diligence requirements and various complex considerations. Companies should explore this option carefully and consult with local counsel.