W-9

Question

I do very little business on ebay. Why is ebay requesting my social security number and completed W-9 form?

lady_madonna · Answer

You are required to provide your social security number in two situations: (both of which apply to Ebay sellers) You are doing something that may be reportable to the IRS or your state’s tax department; and/or You are engaged in a financial transaction that is subject to the Customer Identification Program. This is a part of a financial institution’s “Know Your Client” process that involves verifying a customer's identity and assessing their risk level. KYC helps businesses reduce the risk of fraud, money laundering, and other illegal activities.

jacbarcollectibles · Answer

They need your SSN since this is a banking and IRS regulation. I am not sure why they are asking for the W-9 form since you are not a vendor for eBay but it does collect the same information needed.