When invoicing an international client from India or Europe, you will eventually be asked for a tax form.
1. The W-9 (For US Residents)
If you are a US citizen or resident, you fill out a W-9. This contains your SSN or EIN.
2. The W-8BEN (For Non-US Residents)
If you are an international freelancer, you fill out the W-8BEN. This tells the IRS you are not a US taxpayer, so the client doesn't have to withhold 30% of your invoice total.
3. The Security Risk of Tax Forms
These forms contain your most sensitive data. Never send them as unencrypted email attachments. To keep your identity safe:
- Use an EIN instead of an SSN where possible.
- Use DocuFix to resize your ID photos locally if the client requires proof of identity.
💡 Secure Your Identity with DocuFix
Never upload your passport or ID photo to a random cloud resizer. DocuFix uses Web Workers to process your images 100% on your local device. Your ID never leaves your laptop.
👉 Try DocuFix.in
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a US Tax ID for a W-8BEN?
Generally no. You use your local tax ID (like your PAN card in India) in the "Foreign Tax Identifying Number" section of the W-8BEN.
How often do I need to update these forms?
A W-8BEN typically expires after three years. You should keep a local record of when you signed it so you can provide a fresh one when needed.
Can a client refuse to pay without these forms?
Yes. US companies can face massive fines for paying contractors without proper tax documentation. Provide the forms, but provide them securely.