W-9

What it is

Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, is a one-page IRS form. You fill it in and give it to anyone who pays you and must report that payment to the IRS. The IRS describes its purpose as providing "a correct TIN to payers (or brokers) required to file information returns with IRS."

For a nonprofit, the TIN is the organization's employer identification number (EIN).

Why funders ask for it

Many funders ask for a W-9 before they send the first payment, so their records match your legal name and EIN exactly.

How to get it

1. Download the current form from the IRS Form W-9 page. When we last checked, the current version was the March 2024 revision.
2. Enter the organization's legal name exactly as it appears on your IRS determination letter, and its EIN.
3. Have an authorized person sign and date it.
4. Save it as a PDF and add it to the client's Documents.

How long it takes and what it costs

A few minutes, and there is no fee.

Common mistakes

• Using an older revision of the form. Check the IRS page for the current one.
• Using a nickname or program name instead of the legal name.
• Sending it unsigned or undated.