Download W-9 Form PDF

About the W-9 Form

The W-9 form, officially titled "Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification," is used by businesses to collect tax information from independent contractors, freelancers, and vendors before making payments.

The form collects your legal name, business name (if applicable), tax classification, address, and Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) — either your Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN).

When Do You Need a W-9?

• Starting freelance work: Clients will request a W-9 before your first payment
• Vendor onboarding: Companies require W-9s from all new vendors
• Opening bank accounts: Some business accounts require W-9 information
• Real estate transactions: Title companies and property managers often need W-9s
• Investment accounts: Brokerages collect W-9s for tax reporting

Paper W-9 vs Digital W-9

While the IRS provides a PDF form you can print and fill out, many businesses now accept digital W-9 submissions. Digital W-9s are faster to complete, easier to share, and don't require printing or scanning.

The IRS accepts electronic signatures on W-9 forms as long as they meet certain requirements. Our online W-9 creator generates a compliant substitute W-9 that businesses accept just like the paper form.

W-9 Form Instructions

1. Line 1 - Name: Enter your legal name exactly as shown on your tax return
2. Line 2 - Business name: Enter your business or DBA name if different from line 1
3. Line 3 - Tax classification: Check the box that applies (individual, LLC, corporation, etc.)
4. Line 4 - Exemptions: Most individuals leave this blank
5. Lines 5-6 - Address: Enter your current mailing address
6. Line 7 - Account numbers: Optional, for the requester's records
7. Part I - TIN: Enter your SSN or EIN
8. Part II - Certification: Sign and date the form