A “W-9” is a form used only by individuals and not businesses. A “W-9” was developed in the 1970s as a tool for individuals who had difficulty providing proper social security numbers, to help the IRS trace fraudulent transactions, which helped to bring about the tax reforms in 1986. The W-9 was developed to replace the “T-4,” which had been in use since 1943. When are W 9 Forms Due? — For Individuals Only, Jul 31, 2024 — IRS Go to for Instructions and the latest information. Fill out the form carefully, sign the back page, and mail away. Who is Eligible for W-9 Form? — Individuals who have income that does not exceed 4,700, but who choose not to receive tax-related information from employers. — The Form W-4 (Form 1020). Employees may not file a Form W-4 with no wages or earnings on file for their employer. If you are a self-employed individual and have income that does not exceed 4,700, you are not eligible for a W-9 form. However, if you file a 1099-MISC, Form W-4 may be filed with your income information. How do I find my tax filing status? Your tax status is based on your filing status on the last tax year. For example, if you are filing a joint return with a spouse, your marital information is on the return. Tax status is determined using the following five-digit information: Filing status for your spouse Joint Return Filing status for the entire household Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) Employer Identification Number (EIN) If your filing status is Other than Married Filing Status (MRF), then the last four digits of your individual taxpayer identification number (TIN) and your SSN are used. You may be issued a new EIN. You will need to reapply for a Social Security Number (SSN).