Paying Foreign Independent Contractors For Work In Ohio
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While this opens doors to diverse talent and skill sets, it also introduces unique challenges in terms of tax compliance. One critical aspect of this compliance involves Form 1099, which US-based businesses may need to issue to foreign contractors for reporting payments made during the tax year.
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.
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.
How long can a contractor work at a company for? There seems to be the belief (by some) that a contractor can only work for the same company for two years. This is completely false – contractors can work through an umbrella for an unlimited amount of time.
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.
The tax forms for international contractors aren't the same as those self-employed Americans sign. Instead of a W-9, each new foreign contractor should sign and submit Form W-8BEN, which certifies that they don't need to submit forms to the IRS because they aren't a citizen of the United States.
