How to Fill Out Form W-9 on www.irs.gov: Step-by-Step Instructions
Form W-9 is a request for taxpayer identification number and certification. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses this form to gather information about payees that are required to file a tax return. If you are a contractor, freelancer or self-employed individual, you may need to fill out Form W-9 for tax purposes.
Step 1: Access the Form W-9 on the IRS Website
The first step to filling out Form W-9 is to go to the IRS website. The form is available in a PDF format and can be downloaded, printed or filled out online. To access Form W-9 on the IRS website, follow these steps:
- Go to the IRS website at www.irs.gov
- Click “Forms and Instructions” on the top menu bar
- Select “Form W-9 – Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification”
- Download the form or fill it out online
Step 2: Enter Your Personal Information
The second step is to provide your personal information that the IRS needs to identify you. This includes:
- Your name as shown on your income tax return
- Your business name, if any
- Your address
- Your taxpayer identification number (TIN), which can be your social security number (SSN) or employer identification number (EIN)
- Your account number, if applicable
- Your certification, which states that the information you provide is correct and complete to the best of your knowledge
Step 3: Provide Your TIN
You must enter your TIN in the appropriate box on Form W-9. If you are using your SSN as your TIN, you must enter it in the first box that says “Social security number” and leave the second box that says “Employer identification number” blank. If you are using your EIN as your TIN, enter it in the second box that says “Employer identification number”
Step 4: Complete the Certification
The last step is to sign and date the certification on Form W-9. Your certification states that you certify that the TIN is correct, you are not subject to backup withholding, and you are a U.S. citizen or other U.S. person.
Conclusion
As a contractor, freelancer or self-employed individual, filling out Form W-9 is a necessary step for tax purposes. By following these simple steps and entering accurate information, you can ensure that the IRS has the necessary information to correctly identify you and process your tax returns. Remember that you may be subject to backup withholding if your TIN is incorrect, so it’s important to double-check your information before submitting the form.
