Having a problem with U.S. tax forms

[Cav]

I just signed up with an affiliate network, in order to receive payments they need W-8 or W-9 form filled out, I went to the IRS website, and I'm having trouble figuring it out which one I need, also does this mean I need to pay U.S. taxes? I'm just starting out so I haven't formed a bussiness yet, I am just doing it as an individual. Any help would be greatley appreciated.

[Jim Hutchinson]

Hi Cav

Since you are in Canada, you will complete the W-8 form. If the affiliate program is within the USA, you will get a 1099 from them at the end of the year and will have to report US earnings on taxes, but only if you earn more than $500 during that year.

[Cav]

Thank you very much,

[Rosalind Gardner]

Hi Cav,

Here's a little more information that I posted about U.S. tax forms...

http://www.netprofitstoday.com/articles/104/1/Those-Pesky-W-9-and-W-8BEN-Forms/Page1.html

The article includes links to the specific forms on the U.S. government web site.

And BTW, I've never received a 1099 from any of my merchants... and I live in Canada too. I just keep track of all my earnings (check stubs) and report that at tax time.

Hope that helps.

Cheers,

[Cav]

Thank you Jim and Rosalind for your help, I figure sooner or later I will have to seek the help of a tax specialist to figure out the finer details. Taxes are pretty heavy in Ontario and having to pay %30 In US taxes,Ouch! I'll have to make sure that I keep good records to write everything off.

[Johnny]

I have a question about the W-8BEN: Is "Individual" OK? Some of those checkmarks in part II make me think it isn't but legalese gives me huge headaches so I'm not really sure.