How to Get a W9 for Myself
Whether you’re a freelancer, independent contractor, or simply need a W9 form for personal reasons, obtaining a W9 for yourself is a straightforward process. The W9 form, officially known as the Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, is used to provide your taxpayer identification number (TIN) to individuals or businesses that need to report payments to you. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a W9 for yourself.
1. Visit the IRS Website
The first step is to visit the official IRS website. Go to https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w9 to access the W9 form and instructions.
2. Download the W9 Form
On the IRS website, you’ll find the W9 form available for download in PDF format. Click on the “Download Form W9” link to save the form to your computer.
3. Fill Out the Form
Open the downloaded W9 form and fill it out carefully. You’ll need to provide your full legal name, your TIN (Social Security number or Employer Identification Number), and your address. Additionally, you may need to provide your business name if you’re operating under a different name than your legal name.
4. Sign and Date the Form
Once you’ve completed the necessary information, sign and date the form. It’s important to ensure that the information you provide is accurate and up-to-date.
5. Make Copies
It’s always a good idea to make copies of the completed W9 form for your records. Keep one copy for your own files and provide the original to the individual or business that requested it.
6. Send or Deliver the Form
Depending on the instructions provided by the individual or business that requested the W9 form, you may need to send it via email, mail, or deliver it in person. Follow their instructions carefully to ensure the form is received promptly.
7. Keep a Record
Keep a copy of the completed W9 form and any correspondence related to it for your records. This will help you track the information provided and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
By following these simple steps, you can easily obtain a W9 form for yourself. Remember to keep your W9 form up to date and provide it to any entity that requires it to ensure accurate reporting of payments.
