@ChikakoS , first W-9 is for taxpayers whom have SSN ( Social Security Number ), for the rest Non-Resident Alien it is W8BEN . Since you have had a valid SSN, you should use W-9 and provide your SSN.
Foreign individuals and entities that don't reside in the U.S. don't need to file a W-9 form. The IRS, however, requires you receive a W-8 form from each foreign individual or company you conduct business with. Foreign aliens who are US residents will need to file a W-9.
All US formed entities and US operations of foreign entities complete Form W-9. If you hold a permanent work Visa and reside in the US you may also complete a W-9. All others are considered to be non-US persons (also known as nonresident aliens) and will be required to complete a Form W-8.
Form W9 doesn't expire and is valid as long as the information it contains is correct. W-8BEN, W-8BEN-E, and W-8ECI forms are usually valid for three years or as long as the forms contain correct information. W-8EXP and W-8IMY are usually valid indefinitely provided that the information doesn't change.
The W-8BEN is a tax document for non-US taxpayers who earn US-sourced income, such as interest on a savings account.
9 form: This is the withholding certificate referred to as a '9' on the IRS website. This form is completed to confirm US tax status. 8 forms: This is a link to the withholding certificates referred to as '8s' on the IRS website. This is a series of forms that are completed to confirm nonUS tax status.
8BENE. The purpose of the 8BENE formthe Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax ithholding and Reportingis for foreign entities, not individual workers.
Give Form W-8 BEN to the withholding agent or payer if you are a foreign person and you are the beneficial owner of an amount subject to withholding. Submit Form W-8 BEN when requested by the withholding agent or payer whether or not you are claiming a reduced rate of, or exemption from, withholding.