Content Company That Requires A W-9 Immediately

[LuvWAHLife]

I posted this question in the Telecommuting Moms folder, but I thought I'd post it here, as well, because it specifically pertains to freelance writing.

I just signed on with a content writing company that is fairly new, and they want me to send in a W-9 Form before the first payday. This isn't a full-time job or even a part-time job; it's more of a freelance writing gig in which people can write as often or as seldom as they wish.

In my past experience, most of the online gigs like this that I've worked have only required the submission of a W-9 after I have made $600. Should I be concerned that they want mine immediately? I don't love the idea of sending out my SS# to a site where I may or may not make $600 this year, especially since they are a relatively new content company (although they do seem fairly professional and legitimate). I have provided this form immediately before, but that was for two very well known companies.

Any opinions would be appreciated. I'm holding off on sending the form in and getting started writing until I make this decision.

[reese9905]

There are several content companies that I know of that require a W9 to be filled out before the work begins, so I don't think that is unusual.

If you are concerned about the SSN, you can always use an EIN instead. That's what I do.

[LuvWAHLife]

Originally Posted by reese9905

There are several content companies that I know of that require a W9 to be filled out before the work begins, so I don't think that is unusual.

If you are concerned about the SSN, you can always use an EIN instead. That's what I do.

Thank you so much for your response, reese9905. I find it reassuring to know that several other content companies also have that requirement. I really want to start writing for this company, but I'm very worried about ID theft, especially with the recent Heartbleed issue.

Thanks again!

[AG1976]

Yep, it's pretty commonplace so I wouldn't be concerned .

[LuvWAHLife]

Originally Posted by AG1976

Yep, it's pretty commonplace so I wouldn't be concerned .

Thanks, AG1976. I feel a lot better knowing that. I'd hate to miss out on this egg due to being overly paranoid.

Hope you all have a great Sunday!

[bloggergal]

I'd just make sure you have contact info for whoever you share that information with. If their contact info isn't listed on their site, do a Whois search.

[LuvWAHLife]

That is excellent advice, bloggergal. Just did the search and found the info on the site. The contact person with the company has been very forthcoming with me about contact info and any questions I've had. I also researched her and the CEO, and they both strike me as quite legitimate with decent credentials. I'm pretty cautious in general about the sites I get involved with, but after some careful consideration, my gut is telling me that this company seems like a safe bet. Hope my gut is right!

[avalovesart]

I have had other content writing companies ask for a W-9 straight off the bat, and have no problem signing one. As the previous poster said though, do be sure it is a legitimate company. The reason they would ask for it now, and not wait until you've earned $600 is because they may not be able to get in touch with you again at that point...in which case they would be at fault.

[LuvWAHLife]

Originally Posted by avalovesart

I have had other content writing companies ask for a W-9 straight off the bat, and have no problem signing one. As the previous poster said though, do be sure it is a legitimate company. The reason they would ask for it now, and not wait until you've earned $600 is because they may not be able to get in touch with you again at that point...in which case they would be at fault.

That's another very good point, avalovesart; if a writer earned just over $600 and then disappeared without submitting a W-9, a business could potentially be in trouble with the IRS. Now, I'm starting to wonder why a few places I submit work to don't ask for the form immediately. Seems like they're taking a bit of a risk in not making it a requirement as soon as people agree to submit work.