Fillable W9 Form

What is a W-9 form

A W-9 form is one of the most popular tax documents used in the United States. It’s called the “Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification.” Simply put, businesses use it to collect essential taxpayer information from individuals or other businesses they pay. If you’re a freelancer, independent contractor, or vendor, you’ve likely filled one out. The information helps the business correctly report what they paid you on the annual Form 1099 for the IRS.

The form asks for basic details like your name, business name (if you have one), address, and either your Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN). When you sign it, you’re certifying that your information is correct and that you’re not subject to backup withholding. Importantly, this form doesn’t go to the IRS directly. The company keeps it on file for their records and tax reporting.

How to fill out a W-9 form

Filling out a W-9 form is pretty straightforward, but it’s important to get it right. We’ve already set up a free & fillable W9 form  Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Provide your name: In the first box, write your full legal name. If you’re filling this out for yourself, this is typically your name as shown on your tax return.
  2. Business name or disregarded entity name (if applicable): If you operate under a business name or a “doing business as” (DBA) name, enter it here. If not, you can leave this blank.
  3. Federal tax classification: Check the box that applies to you. Options include individual/sole proprietor, partnership, C corporation, S corporation, trust/estate, limited liability company (LLC), and others. Choose what fits your tax status.
  4. Exemptions (if any): Most individuals don’t need to worry about this box, but if you’re exempt from backup withholding or have an exempt payee code, include it here.
  5. Address: Enter your full mailing address. This is where copies of tax forms, like Form 1099, will be sent.
  6. Requester’s name and address (optional): You can skip this box unless the company requesting the form asks you to fill it in.
  7. Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN): Provide your Social Security Number (SSN) if you’re an individual or sole proprietor. If you’re a business entity, use your Employer Identification Number (EIN).
  8. Certification: Sign and date the form at the bottom. By signing, you’re confirming that all the information is accurate and that you aren’t subject to backup withholding (unless stated otherwise).

That’s it! The completed W-9 form should be returned to the requester, not the IRS.

Get a Free Fillable W-9 Template

If you’re a freelancer, independent contractor, or business owner, using a properly structured W-9 form is essential for tax reporting. Save time by using an easy-to-complete, fillable version. Our free fillable W-9 template on Popform makes it simple to input your information correctly, so you can quickly hand it off to the requesting entity and focus on your work.

Get Help Filling Out a W-9 Form

Popform makes filling out a W-9 form effortless. With Popform’s built-in AI assistant, you can ask questions as you fill out the form and get instant guidance to make sure you understand each section. While Popform’s AI assistant helps clarify the process, remember that it doesn’t replace personalized tax advice from a professional.

Does Popform Provide a Printable W-9 Form?

Yes, Popform provides a printable W-9 form. Once you’ve completed the form using our platform, you can download and print it to meet your documentation needs. This makes sharing and keeping accurate, physical records simple and convenient.

Download a Free W-9 Form Template

Need a ready-to-use W-9 form? Download our free W-9 form template to ensure your information is correctly documented. Our template is designed for easy customization, allowing you to accurately enter your name, Taxpayer Identification Number, and other necessary details.