Is a W9 the same as a W-2?

Two forms that are easily confused, though, are the W-2 and W-9, which serve completely different purposes. The W-2 is the form you receive in the mail from your employer at tax time, while a W-9 is a form you submit if you’re doing independent contractor work for someone.

What is a W 9 form used for?

Use Form W-9 to provide your correct Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to the person who is required to file an information return with the IRS to report, for example: Income paid to you. Real estate transactions.

Which is better W2 or W9?

If you worked as an employee for a company in the previous year, you should receive a W-2. When you work as an independent contractor or freelancer, you should fill out and submit a W-9. Independent contractors or freelancers who require a W-9 form are also required to earn $600 or more during their contract.

What happens if I don’t fill out a w9?

If you don’t fill out a W-9 duly requested by an employer, partner or other entity duly entitled to your taxpayer ID information, you may be penalized $50 for each instance. You may also be subject to backup withholding, which means the payor will withhold 28 percent of your check and forward the proceeds to the IRS.

Can I refuse to fill out a w9?

Can I refuse to fill out the W-9? Yes, you can refuse a request to fill out the W-9 but only if you are suspicious as to why a business has made the request. Be wary of filling out the W-9 if the business does not have a legitimate reason to ask you to fill it out.

Is I9 used for taxes?

Unlike many IRS tax forms, Form I-9 requires both the employer and employee to provide information. The employee is responsible for Section 1, Employee Information and Attestation. In addition to basic contact information, the employee will provide: Social Security number.

Is i-9 form mandatory?

You are required to complete and retain a Form I-9 for every employee you hire for employment in the United States, except for: Individuals hired on or before Nov. 6, 1986, who are continuing in their employment and have a reasonable expectation of employment at all times.