Why do I need to fill out a W-9?
TakeLessons Teachers are Independent Contractors
TakeLessons is required by the Internal Revenue Service to report all earnings of our independent contractors, and issue a 1099 for any instructor earning $600 or more in a calendar year. For payment and tax purposes, teachers with TakeLessons are required to complete a W-9 when the total amount earned has reached $400 for the year. This ensures that once the earnings minimum for the IRS is reached, that we already have all necessary information on file for their 1099. As a result, it is a requirement for all teachers using TakeLessons to have a valid US address and Taxpayer Identification Number (i.e: Social Security Number), to ensure you are able to complete this form.
If you are an independent contractor who has earned close to $600, we will notify you through your account and provide instructions for completing the W-9 form. Only teachers who earn more than $600 a year from TakeLessons are subject to receive a 1099 form in the mail during tax season.