If you’re a business owner or independent contractor, a client may ask that you send them a W-9. Here’s why, and how to accurately complete one.

As a small-business owner, you may be thinking about outsourcing work to save time and expand your services. Before taking this step, make sure you ask contractors or companies to fill out a W-9 form.

A W-9 is an IRS form that independent contractors fill out to give businesses their tax ID number and personal information. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising ...

Often, an employee who works outside standard workplace hours to fulfill their role for you is an independent contractor instead of a full-time employee. This employee status difference is a vital ...

IRS forms W-8 and W-9 serve distinct purposes in the tax system and are used by different groups to fulfill their tax obligations. A W-8 form is typically required ...

The IRS continues to roll out drafts of some 2026 tax forms, including a draft of Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification. Here’s a look at what’s new—and why it matters ...