THE BESIDE BLOG
A little clarity.
A lot less paperwork.
Practical guides to W-9s, W-8s, and getting
the details right the first time.
START WITH THE BASICS
W-9 or W-8?
Let’s clear that up.
What each form does, who needs it, and how to choose the right starting point.
Read the explainer
W-9 guides
For U.S. people and the businesses paying them.
How to fill out a W-9, one line at a time
Your name, tax classification, address, and TIN: what belongs where, and the common mistakes to check before sending your W-9.
How to request a W-9 from a contractor
A simple collection workflow, an email template you can use, and a checklist for reviewing the form when it comes back.
W-9 vs. 1099: what’s the difference?
One collects a payee’s tax details. The other reports payments. Here is how W-9 and 1099 fit into a contractor workflow.
W-8 guides
For international contractors and their clients.
How to fill out W-8BEN as an international contractor
A practical walkthrough for foreign individuals: identity, tax residence, tax IDs, treaty claims, and the final certification.
W-8BEN vs. W-8BEN-E: which form do you need?
The individual-versus-entity distinction, the exceptions to check, and what an international contractor should prepare before starting.
Does W-8BEN expire? The validity rule, explained
How to calculate the usual W-8BEN expiration date, when a change requires an earlier update, and how to plan a renewal.
ONE LESS THING ON YOUR LIST
From “I need that form”
to all taken care of.
Send a link. Get the completed form back.