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What is the W-8BEN and what is its purpose?

Learn when and how to use Form W-8BEN for U.S. tax withholding purposes, including validity period and submission guidelines.
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Andrew Sidorkin
Updated 2 days ago

Understanding Form W-8BEN: Foreign Status and U.S. Tax Withholding for Nonresident Aliens

The primary purpose of Form W-8BEN is to establish foreign status under Chapter 3 of the U.S. tax code. Nonresident aliens are generally subject to a 30% withholding tax on income they receive from various U.S. sources.

Who Needs to Provide Form W-8BEN?

If you are a nonresident alien and the beneficial owner of income subject to withholding, or an account holder of a Foreign Financial Institution (FFI) documenting yourself as a nonresident alien, you must submit Form W-8BEN to the withholding agent or payer.

Validity Period of the Form

Form W-8BEN typically remains valid from the date signed through the last day of the third succeeding calendar year, unless any information becomes incorrect due to changed circumstances.

Additional Resources

For detailed instructions and information, visit the official IRS webpage about Form W-8BEN: https://www.irs.gov/instructions/iw8ben

Need Assistance?

If you require Form W-8BEN or help regarding its submission, please contact Secure Privacy support at support@secureprivacy.ai.

Common Questions & Fixes

When should I submit Form W-8BEN?
Submit it when you receive U.S. sourced income subject to withholding and need to certify nonresident status.
How long is Form W-8BEN valid?
It is valid for the year it is signed plus three more calendar years, unless you update the information.
What happens if my information changes?
You should submit a new Form W-8BEN with updated information to avoid withholding penalties.

See Also

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