Question

International Freelancers for my Small Business

Forum|Forum|4 years ago
October 27, 2021
1 reply
0 views

How do I register international freelancers as part of my expenses if freelancers are abroad?

Hi Anabgm! If you have employed the services of a international freelancer or foreign contractor ( an individual who performed the work as an independent person in a foreign country) you would have the individual complete a Form W-8BEN. The form will be completed for your records, it is not filed with IRS. If audited, the Form W-8BEN documents who was paid, the amount, why no 1099 was issued and why no tax was withheld. Additionally, you should consult with a local tax professional to determine if a tax treaty between the US and your freelancer's country where the work is performed exists and ensure that it does not impact your situation.

If you have determined that no treaty exists or impacts your situation, expenses for your foreign freelancers would be input under Outside Services.

Go to and open your Business Income (Schedule C), scroll down to Expenses, look for Outside Services.

I'm including links to Form W-8BEN and Instructions. I hope you find these resources helpful!

Form W-8BEN

Instructions for W-8BEN

**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"