What is a W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E?

W-8 forms are used to verify a non-US citizen’s or business’s tax residency. This form is used by  a foreign person or business entity to claim exempt status from certain tax withholdings.


There are two different types of W-8 forms depending on how taxes are filed (W-8BEN if filing as an Individual, and W-8BEN-E if filing as a Business).


Completing the W-8BEN-E as a Business:


If taxes are filed as a BUSINESS, the W-8BEN-E form requires the following fields:

  • Field 1. Name of organization that is the beneficial owner - Full name of the company

  • Field 2. Country of incorporation or organization - The country where your company is registered


  • Field 6. Permanent residence address (no PO boxes) - Physical address of the company

  • City or town, state or province - The city/town and state/province where your company is located

  • Country - The country where your company is located

  • Sign - Click to sign the form

  • Print name - Print your name

  • Certify - Attest that the information provided is accurate

Completing the W-8BEN as an Individual:


If taxes are filed as an INDIVIDUAL, the W-8BEN form requires the following fields:

  • Field 1. Name of individual who is the beneficial owner - Your full name

  • Field 2. Country of citizenship - Your country of citizenship

  • Field 3. Permanent residence address (no PO boxes) -  Your physical address

  • City or town, state or province - Your city/town and state/province

  • Country - Your country

  • Field 8. Date of birth - Your date of birth

  • Certify - Attest that the information provided is accurate

  • Sign - Click to sign the form

  • Date - Fill in the date in MM/DD/YYYY format

  • Print name - Print your name


Please note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as tax or legal advice. Worksuite is not composed of tax professionals and cannot offer specific tax filing guidance. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified tax professional for personalized tax advice and assistance. Additionally, you may visit the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/ for further support.