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I'm an Indian citizen residing in India. I made some money doing online tutoring in a site called Student of Fortune. But if I have to withdraw the funds, I need to submit a W8BEN form. The form asks for "U.S Taxpayer Identification number (SSN or ITIN)". Since I'm not a US citizen, the only one applicable to me is the ITIN. But is this necessary for me?

I referred the IRS website, and it says, "IRS issues ITINs to foreign nationals and others who have federal tax reporting or filing requirements and do not qualify for SSNs. A non-resident alien individual not eligible for a SSN who is required to file a U.S. tax return only to claim a refund of tax under the provisions of a U.S. tax treaty needs an ITIN." How do I know if I'm required to file a U.S tax return?

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1 Answers1

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According to the instructions to the form - yes, you do need an ITIN.

Line 6. ....

If you do not have an SSN and are not eligible to get one, you must get an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). To apply for an ITIN, file Form W-7 with the IRS. It usually takes 4-6 weeks to get an ITIN.

littleadv
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