IRS Form W-9S – IRS Forms, Instructions, Pubs 2026 – In the world of tax compliance, especially for education-related finances, IRS Form W-9S plays a crucial role. Whether you’re a student providing your details to a college or a borrower certifying loan usage, understanding this form ensures smooth reporting and potential tax benefits. This guide covers everything from the basics to step-by-step instructions, using the latest 2026 revision. If you’re searching for “what is IRS Form W-9S” or “how to fill out Form W-9S,” you’ve come to the right place.
What Is IRS Form W-9S?
IRS Form W-9S, officially titled “Request for Student’s or Borrower’s Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification,” is a document used by eligible educational institutions or student loan lenders to collect a person’s Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). It’s distinct from the more common Form W-9, which is for general taxpayer identification in business contexts. This form helps institutions file information returns with the IRS, such as Form 1098-T for tuition statements or Form 1098-E for student loan interest.
The form is straightforward, consisting of three parts: student or borrower identification, student loan certification (if applicable), and optional requester information. It’s typically requested on paper or electronically by schools or lenders.
Purpose of Form W-9S
The primary goal of Form W-9S is to ensure accurate reporting of education-related expenses and loans to the IRS. For students, it verifies identity for tuition payments, which can qualify you or your dependents for credits like the American Opportunity Credit or Lifetime Learning Credit. For borrowers, it certifies that loan proceeds are used solely for qualified higher education expenses, aiding in deductions for student loan interest.
Without this form, institutions can’t properly report to the IRS, potentially delaying your tax benefits. It’s mandatory to provide the requested information, and failure to do so may result in issues with claiming education credits or deductions.
Who Needs to Use Form W-9S?
- Students: If you’re enrolled in an eligible educational institution (like a college or university) and the school needs your TIN for reporting qualified tuition and related expenses on Form 1098-T.
- Borrowers: If you have a student loan and the lender requires certification that the funds are for higher education costs.
- Institutions and Lenders: They request the form from students or borrowers but don’t submit it to the IRS—it’s for their records to prepare other forms.
Note that if tuition is paid to the same institution that provided the loan, and the student isn’t the borrower (e.g., a parent is the borrower), two separate W-9S forms may be needed: one for the student and one for the borrower.
What’s New in the 2026 Version of Form W-9S?
The January 2026 revision introduces an identification requirement for education credits. Starting in 2026, taxpayers claiming the American Opportunity Credit or Lifetime Learning Credit must have an SSN valid for work, issued before the tax return due date. If the credit is claimed for someone else (e.g., a dependent student), the student also needs a valid SSN. For more details, refer to IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education.
Always check for future developments at www.irs.gov/FormW9S, as legislation can impact the form.
How to Fill Out IRS Form W-9S: Step-by-Step Instructions?
Filling out Form W-9S is simple and takes just a few minutes. Here’s a breakdown based on the official guidelines:
Part I: Student or Borrower Identification (Required for All)
- Name and Address: Enter your full name and mailing address. Use the student’s details if for tuition; use the borrower’s if for a loan.
- Taxpayer Identification Number: Provide your SSN or ITIN. If you don’t have one but have applied, write “Applied For.” If your ITIN is deactivated, you can still use it here but must renew it for tax filing.
Part II: Student Loan Certification (For Student Loans Only)
- Check this if the loan is solely for qualified higher education expenses (e.g., tuition, fees, books).
- Sign and date the form to certify.
Part III: Requester Information (Optional)
- The institution or lender may fill in their name, address, tuition account number, or loan account number.
Tips for Completion:
- Do not send the form to the IRS; give it directly to the requester.
- If applying for an SSN, use Form SS-5 from www.SSA.gov. For an ITIN, use Form W-7 from www.irs.gov/FormW7.
- Qualified higher education expenses include tuition, fees, and course materials required for enrollment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filling Out Form W-9S?
- Incorrect TIN: Double-check your SSN or ITIN to avoid reporting errors.
- Missing Certification: For loans, always sign Part II if applicable—otherwise, you might not qualify for interest deductions.
- Confusing with Form W-9: W-9S is specifically for education; don’t use the standard W-9.
- Not Updating for Changes: If your details change, inform the institution or lender.
Frequently Asked Questions About IRS Form W-9S
1. What if I don’t have an SSN or ITIN?
Apply immediately using Form SS-5 or W-7, and note “Applied For” on the form.
2. Is Form W-9S required every year?
It depends on the institution or lender; they may request it annually or as needed for updates.
3. How does this affect my taxes?
It helps verify eligibility for education credits (via Form 8863) and student loan interest deductions.
4. Where can I download Form W-9S?
Download the latest PDF version directly from the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw9s.pdf.
Conclusion
IRS Form W-9S is essential for accurate tax reporting in education and student loans, helping you maximize benefits like credits and deductions. By following these steps, you can complete it confidently. For personalized advice, consult IRS Publication 970 or a tax professional. Stay updated via the IRS website for any changes.