SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/biz-form-w9-tin

Which form does a contractor give a business so it has their correct taxpayer ID number?

Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification.

Start playing free

  1. Form W-4
  2. Form I-9
  3. Form W-9 ✔

Why: Before paying a contractor, businesses usually collect a Form W-9 so they have the right taxpayer ID for the 1099. The W-4 is for employees' withholding, and the I-9 checks an employee's work eligibility.

Huh, didn't know that: The W-9 is kept by the business, not mailed to the IRS.

The dad joke
I asked the contractor for a W-9. He said he'd rather have a W-10. Overachiever.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Form W-9. Before paying a contractor, businesses usually collect a Form W-9 so they have the right taxpayer ID for the 1099. The W-4 is for employees' withholding, and the I-9 checks an employee's work eligibility.

  1. IRS: About Form W-9 www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-9
    provide your correct Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to the person who is required to file an information return with the IRS
    Checked 2026-10-11.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Starting and Running a BusinessFor 2026, Form 1099-NEC reporting generally begins at what payment total for a nonemployee?Starting and Running a BusinessBy what date is Form 1099-NEC generally filed with the IRS?Starting and Running a BusinessIf you start selling without registering any business type, what are you automatically?

That's stuff everyone should know.