Get First B Notice

To stop backup withholding, you'll need to correct the reason you became subject to backup withholding. This can include providing the correct TIN to the payer, resolving the underreported income and paying the amount owed, or filing the missing return(s), as appropriate.

When it applies, backup withholding requires a payer to withhold tax from payments not otherwise subject to withholding. You may be subject to backup withholding if you fail to provide a correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) when required or if you fail to report interest, dividend, or patronage dividend income.

A first B Notice is defined as a name and TIN combination that hasn't been identified in a B Notice received within the last three calendar years. Payees identified in a first B Notice must complete a valid Form W-9 and submit that form to the filer in order to avoid backup withholding.

Change Your Withholding Complete a new Form W-4, Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate, and submit it to your employer. Complete a new Form W-4P, Withholding Certificate for Pension or Annuity Payments, and submit it to your payer. Make an additional or estimated tax payment to the IRS before the end of the year.

You should not be subject to backup withholding if you provide your correct TIN/SSN, make the proper certifications, and report all your taxable interest and dividends on your tax return to the IRS.

If you receive a second B Notice, continue withholding income taxes. The payee is responsible for resolving the issue with the IRS directly. The IRS will inform you when the payee's TIN has been corrected. At that point, you can stop withholding income taxes.

Who Is Exempt from Backup Withholding? Most American citizens are exempted from backup withholding so long as their tax identification number (TIN) or social security number is on file with their broker, and corresponds with their legal name. Retirement accounts and unemployment income are also exempted.

IRS B Notices Notifies individuals and organizations that the name and tax identification number submitted on IRS Form 1099 do not match IRS records. Includes an IRS W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification Form.