The IRS requires a flat 30% withholding on ALL types of payments to foreign national individuals UNLESS: The individual has a U.S. tax identification number (SSN or ITIN) and qualifies for a tax reduction under the tax treaty between the U.S. and their country of tax residency.
Instead of filling out a 1099, when you hire Canadian contractors, you should request a completed W-8BEN from them. This form ensures compliance with the IRS and the Canada-US tax treaty; without it, you are required to withhold and remit 30% tax on all contractor earnings.
Foreign independent contractors must submit IRS Form W-8BEN (for individuals) or IRS Form W-8BEN-E (for entities) to the US company they work for. This form certifies the contractor's foreign status and can help reduce or eliminate withholding tax on payments. Purpose: Certifies foreign status.
Form 1099 is used to report payments made to an independent contractor. Expat business owners may need to file Form 1099 when working with contractors abroad. Failing to file Form 1099 as required could result in penalties.
However, the IRS doesn't require a company to withhold taxes or report any income from an international contractor if the contractor is not a U.S. citizen and the services provided are outside the U.S. filing forms 1099 is required if: The contractor is located internationally but is a U.S. citizen.