Tax Year Prior to 2020: W9/1099

[bethrenee11]

I did some consulting for a customer, they requested my ssn via text message, I requested the send me a W9. Instead I received a 1099 that says I refused to provide my ssn. What do I do?

[WKins2]

You can download a blank W-9 from the internet, fill it out and email it to the client to start with. You can then continue on filing out your tax return, making sure to report the income (1099 you received from the client on your return in case you are ever audited (the IRS will see that you claimed it).

[bethrenee11]

Do you know, when requesting a SSN from someone is it your responsibility to provide the blank W9 or is it the responsibility of the person performing the work?  Also, can they get in trouble for lying on the 1099 they issued me?

[KurtL1]

Under the W-9 Instructions it states to use Form W-9 to request the taxpayer identification number (TIN) of a U.S. person (including a resident alien) and to request certain certifications and claims for exemption. 

This clearly states that is it their responsibility for them to request your identification number.

The companies are required by law to request the individuals to complete the Form W-9, but does not provide any penalties for failing to request the document. However, If a vendor or contractor refuses to provide a W-9 when its requested the Payee is subject to a penalty of $50 for each such failure.

[bethrenee11]

Thank you!  That's how I was reading it too.  I'm just irked that they reported to the IRS that I refused to provide it when all they did is request I text it to them.  Who in their right mind would text their social security number to someone?  I've asked three times for a W9 form!