A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Complete a W-9 Form for Your Nonprofit
If your nonprofit corporation is providing services to another business, you might be asked to complete a W-9 form (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification). This form is used by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to collect Social Security and taxpayer identification numbers from those who receive payments for their services.
Where to Obtain a W-9 Form
You can download the W-9 Form by clicking the button below.
Steps to Complete a W-9 for a Nonprofit Corporation:
Name: Enter the legal name of your nonprofit corporation as it appears on your tax documents and articles of incorporation.
Business name/Disregarded entity name: If your nonprofit operates under a different name (DBA), list it here. If not, leave this field blank.
Federal tax classification: Check the “Other” box and specify "Nonprofit corporation exempt under IRS Code Section ____," filling in the appropriate section number, such as 501(c)(3).
Exemptions: Nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporations can leave this section blank. For more details, refer to the IRS instructions or consult a tax professional.
Address: Provide the mailing address of your nonprofit.
Taxpayer Identification Number: Enter your nonprofit’s Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is similar to an individual’s Social Security number but for federal tax purposes. If your nonprofit doesn’t have an EIN yet, you can apply for one online or by submitting Form SS-4 to the IRS. If you’ve applied but haven’t received your EIN yet, write “applied for” on the W-9. Do not use a Social Security number.
Certification: Sign and date the form to confirm that the information provided is accurate and that your nonprofit is not subject to backup withholding.