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This version of the form is not currently in use and is provided for reference only. Download this version of
IRS Form W-8BEN
for the current year.
IRS Form W-8BEN Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding and Reporting (Individuals)
What Is IRS Form W-8BEN?
This is a tax form that was released by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - a subdivision of the U.S. Department of the Treasury on July 1, 2017. Check the official IRS-issued instructions before completing and submitting the form.
FAQ
Q: What is IRS Form W-8BEN?A: IRS Form W-8BEN is a certificate used to determine the foreign status of the beneficial owner for tax withholding and reporting purposes.
Q: Who needs to fill out IRS Form W-8BEN?A: Individuals who are foreign beneficiaries that receive income from U.S. sources and want to claim tax treaty benefits must fill out IRS Form W-8BEN.
Q: What is the purpose of IRS Form W-8BEN?A: The purpose of IRS Form W-8BEN is to establish that the individual is a foreign person and is eligible for certain tax benefits under a tax treaty.
Q: What information is required on IRS Form W-8BEN?A: IRS Form W-8BEN requires the individual's name, address, country of citizenship, taxpayer identification number (if applicable), and information about their foreign status and tax treaty eligibility.
Q: Do I need to provide a U.S. taxpayer identification number on IRS Form W-8BEN?A: No, a U.S. taxpayer identification number is not required if the individual is not a U.S. taxpayer.
Q: How often do I need to fill out IRS Form W-8BEN?A: IRS Form W-8BEN is generally valid for a period of three years. However, if there are any changes in the individual's circumstances, a new form may need to be completed.
Q: What happens if I don't fill out IRS Form W-8BEN?A: If you don't fill out IRS Form W-8BEN when required, you may be subject to U.S. tax withholding at a higher rate.
Q: Can I claim tax treaty benefits without filling out IRS Form W-8BEN?A: No, in order to claim tax treaty benefits, you must fill out IRS Form W-8BEN.
Q: Can a nonresident alien Individual who is not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) using IRS Form W-8BEN?A: Yes, a nonresident alien individual who is not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) using IRS Form W-8BEN.
Form Details:
- A 1-page form available for download in PDF;
- Actual and valid for filing 2023 taxes;
- Editable, printable, and free;
- Fill out the form in our online filing application.
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