February 15, 2025

A Comprehensive Guide to IRS IP PIN and W-9 Form

Article Summary:

To access the 2024 and 2025 W-9 form, visit IRS.gov to download the latest version, complete it accurately, and submit it to the requesting entity. An IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) adds security to tax filings and can be obtained online by verifying your identity. Keeping tax documents updated helps ensure compliance, prevents backup withholding, and protects against identity theft.

Legal Topics

2024 Tax Filing, Identity Protection PIN, IP PIN, IRS IP PIN, IRS W-9 Form, Self-Employment Tax, Tax Attorney,

EMPLOYMENT LAW UPDATE: FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION ELIMINATES NON-COMPETE CLAUSES

On Tuesday, the Federal Trade Commission issued a new Rule putting an end to employment-related non-compete clauses. In its justification for the rule, the FTC called non-compete clauses “an unfair method of competition” and stated it is a “violation for [employers] to… enter into non-compete clauses (“non-competes”) with workers.” In today’s very competitive labor market, the new FTC Rule creates a significant disruption for employers.

WHEN IS THE FTC ELIMINATION OF NON-COMPETE CLAUSES SET TO TAKE EFFECT?

This new FTC provision—set to take effect in 120 days—renders existing non-compete agreements unenforceable. Existing non-compete agreements with senior executives will remain enforceable, although employers cannot require newly hired senior executives to sign such an agreement.

WHAT REQUIREMENTS HAS THE FTC IMPOSED ON EMPLOYERS BY ELIMINATING NON-COMPETE CLAUSES?

After the Rule takes effect, employers are required to deliver personal notice to employees (past and present) who signed a non-compete agreement informing them agreements are no longer enforceable. In the notice, employers must inform employees they are free to accept any job or start any business, even if it is directly competitive with the employer.

IS THE FTC’S ELIMINATION OF THE NON-COMPETE CLAUSES OPTIONAL FOR EMPLOYERS?

Compliance with the FTC Rule is not optional. Employers should consider new ways they can protect against a former employee gaining a competitive advantage by using the employer- provided training, the relationships made possible by the employer, or the confidential information learned from the employer. RMP can assist you in navigating this disruption and can provide advice on how to most effectively protect your vital business interests going forward.

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RMP: Your Employment Law Attorneys

RMP Attorneys At Law has an experienced Employment Law Attorney team dedicated to helping you navigate these changes. If you have any questions or would like guidance, reach out to one of our employment attorneys, Tim Hutchinson, Seth Haines, Larry McCredy, or Taylor Baltz or call 479.443.2705.

Whether you’re an independent contractor, freelancer, or someone who needs to provide tax-related information to the IRS by filing an information return, managing your tax responsibilities begins with having the proper forms and tools and the W-9 form is often essential. Here’s everything you need to know about accessing the W-9 form for 2024 and 2025, along with insights on obtaining an IRS Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN).

Accessing the W-9 Form for 2024 and 2025

The W-9 form, formally called the “Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification,” serves a crucial purpose: it provides your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and other relevant information, to a payer who must report income paid to you. Whether you’re a freelancer, contractor, or investor, this form acts as a bridge between you, the payer, and the IRS.

Visit the IRS Website: The IRS offers the most up-to-date version of the W-9 form for download. Visit irs.gov and search for “Form W-9” in the search bar. You can find more information on Form W-9 through the “Instructions for the Requester of Form W-9” and the “About Form W-9” page maintained by the IRS.
Download the Current Form: Ensure you download the most current version by verifying the revision date in the top left corner of the form. The IRS periodically updates forms to reflect changes in tax regulations, so always use the latest version.
Fill Out the Form Electronically or by Hand: You can complete the form directly on your computer using a PDF reader or print it out for handwritten completion. Ensure your information is accurate to avoid errors or delays come tax season.
Submit the Form: Provide the completed W-9 to the requesting entity, such as a client or financial institution. Do not send the form directly to the IRS unless instructed.

Keeping your W-9 form updated annually will streamline your tax reporting process and reduce the risk of errors.

What Is an IP PIN, and How Do You Obtain One?

An Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (PIN) is an additional layer of security to help protect tax information and prevent identity theft. Below we explain how to obtain and use your IRS IP PIN.

Understand the Purpose of the IP PIN

The IP PIN is a six-digit number used to verify your identity when filing your taxes electronically or by mail. If you have previously been a victim of tax-related identity theft, the IRS may automatically send you a notice with your new IP PIN each year. However, you can request an IP PIN to help protect yourself from such identity theft as well.

Apply for an IRS PIN

Visit irs.gov and search for “Identity Protection PIN.”
Select the link titled “Get an identity protection PIN.”
Use the “Get an IP PIN” online tool to complete the application process.
You’ll need to verify your identity, so you have handy information like your Social Security Number (SSN) and recent tax return.

Obtaining an identity protection PIN (IP PIN) through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Use Your PIN When Filing Taxes

Include your IP PIN on your tax return to confirm your identity and secure your filing process. A new PIN is issued each year, so be sure to keep track of the current one. Your return may be rejected or delayed if you do not include the correct IP PIN.

Why You Should Always Use the Latest IRS W-9 Form

Using the latest W-9 form ensures compliance with current tax laws and minimizes the risk of processing delays. Outdated forms might not include updates required for accurate tax reporting.

Stay Current: Regularly check the IRS website for updates to the W-9 form.
Avoid Backup Withholding: Providing an outdated or incorrect W-9 may result in becoming subject to backup withholding at a 24% rate, which would impact your cash flow.
Be Proactive: If your name, address, or TIN changes, update and provide a new W-9 promptly to requesting entities.

Key Takeaways for Managing Your Tax Documents

Access Forms Online: Always download your W-9 form from the official IRS website to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Keep Records Organized: Maintain copies of completed W-9 forms for your records.
Secure Your Identity with an IP PIN: Protect yourself from tax fraud by applying for and using an IP PIN annually.
Stay Ahead of Deadlines: Promptly submitting updated forms helps avoid unnecessary penalties or delays.

Take Charge of Your Taxes

Staying informed and proactive will simplify the tax process and ensure a smoother financial journey. If you have questions or need advice, consider consulting an RMP tax professional to guide you through these steps.

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Whether you’re an independent contractor, freelancer, or someone who needs to provide tax-related information to the IRS by filing an information return, managing your tax responsibilities begins with having the proper forms and tools and the W-9 form is often essential. Here’s everything you need to know about accessing the W-9 form for 2024 and 2025, along with insights on obtaining an IRS Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN).

Accessing the W-9 Form for 2024 and 2025

The W-9 form, formally called the “Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification,” serves a crucial purpose: it provides your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and other relevant information, to a payer who must report income paid to you. Whether you’re a freelancer, contractor, or investor, this form acts as a bridge between you, the payer, and the IRS.

Visit the IRS Website: The IRS offers the most up-to-date version of the W-9 form for download. Visit irs.gov and search for “Form W-9” in the search bar. You can find more information on Form W-9 through the “Instructions for the Requester of Form W-9” and the “About Form W-9” page maintained by the IRS.
Download the Current Form: Ensure you download the most current version by verifying the revision date in the top left corner of the form. The IRS periodically updates forms to reflect changes in tax regulations, so always use the latest version.
Fill Out the Form Electronically or by Hand: You can complete the form directly on your computer using a PDF reader or print it out for handwritten completion. Ensure your information is accurate to avoid errors or delays come tax season.
Submit the Form: Provide the completed W-9 to the requesting entity, such as a client or financial institution. Do not send the form directly to the IRS unless instructed.

Keeping your W-9 form updated annually will streamline your tax reporting process and reduce the risk of errors.

What Is an IP PIN, and How Do You Obtain One?

An Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (PIN) is an additional layer of security to help protect tax information and prevent identity theft. Below we explain how to obtain and use your IRS IP PIN.

Understand the Purpose of the IP PIN

The IP PIN is a six-digit number used to verify your identity when filing your taxes electronically or by mail. If you have previously been a victim of tax-related identity theft, the IRS may automatically send you a notice with your new IP PIN each year. However, you can request an IP PIN to help protect yourself from such identity theft as well.

Apply for an IRS PIN

Visit irs.gov and search for “Identity Protection PIN.”
Select the link titled “Get an identity protection PIN.”
Use the “Get an IP PIN” online tool to complete the application process.
You’ll need to verify your identity, so you have handy information like your Social Security Number (SSN) and recent tax return.

Use Your PIN When Filing Taxes

Include your IP PIN on your tax return to confirm your identity and secure your filing process. A new PIN is issued each year, so be sure to keep track of the current one. Your return may be rejected or delayed if you do not include the correct IP PIN.

Why You Should Always Use the Latest IRS W-9 Form

Using the latest W-9 form ensures compliance with current tax laws and minimizes the risk of processing delays. Outdated forms might not include updates required for accurate tax reporting.

Stay Current: Regularly check the IRS website for updates to the W-9 form.
Avoid Backup Withholding: Providing an outdated or incorrect W-9 may result in becoming subject to backup withholding at a 24% rate, which would impact your cash flow.
Be Proactive: If your name, address, or TIN changes, update and provide a new W-9 promptly to requesting entities.

Key Takeaways for Managing Your Tax Documents

Access Forms Online: Always download your W-9 form from the official IRS website to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Keep Records Organized: Maintain copies of completed W-9 forms for your records.
Secure Your Identity with an IP PIN: Protect yourself from tax fraud by applying for and using an IP PIN annually.
Stay Ahead of Deadlines: Promptly submitting updated forms helps avoid unnecessary penalties or delays.

Take Charge of Your Taxes

Staying informed and proactive will simplify the tax process and ensure a smoother financial journey. If you have questions or need advice, consider consulting an RMP tax professional to guide you through these steps.