What Is IRS Form W-8BEN?
Form W-8BEN is an IRS form used by non-US individuals to certify their foreign status when receiving income from US sources.
US companies and platforms such as Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, and US clients often require this form before releasing payments.
What W-8BEN Is Used For
- Confirming you are not a US person
- Determining tax withholding rates
- Applying tax treaty benefits (if applicable)
What W-8BEN Is NOT
- It is not a tax return
- It does not calculate taxes
- It does not grant a visa or work authorization
WARNING: If filled incorrectly, the form may result in delayed payments or default withholding (30%).