How do I get a TIN number?

Question

I was going to buy a stock directly from a company through mellon investor services, but anyway they wanted a Tax Payer Identifcation number or TIN number. How do I get this, what forms do I fill out and who do I send them to? Thanks.

Answer 1

your TIN is your social security number!

Answer 2

From the IRS Website today:

Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN)

A Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is an identification number used by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the administration of tax laws. It is issued either by the Social Security Administration (SSA) or by the IRS. A Social Security number (SSN) is issued by the SSA whereas all other TINs are issued by the IRS.


Taxpayer Identification Numbers

Social Security Number "SSN"
Employer Identification Number "EIN"
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number "ITIN"
Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions "ATIN"
Preparer Taxpayer Identification Number "PTIN"
Note: The temporary IRS Numbers previously assigned are no longer valid.

Do I Need One?

A TIN must be furnished on returns, statements, and other tax related documents. For example a number must be furnished:

When filing your tax returns - A change in IRC section 6109 regulations in 1996 mandates the use of a TIN on tax returns.

When claiming treaty benefits - There was a change in the IRC section 1441 regulations in 2001 which mandates the use of a TIN in order to claim tax treaty benefits. A TIN must be on a withholding certificate if the beneficial owner is claiming any of the following:

Tax treaty benefits (other than for income from marketable securities)
Exemption for effectively connected income
Exemption for certain annuities

Answer 3

Your TIN as an individual is your social security number. If you were buying for your company, it would be your company's Tax ID number.

Answer 4

That would be your Social Security Number. That is how you are identified when you pay taxes. Make sure it is a reputable company and a secure site.