As a Canadian, how do I know if I'm eligible to work as a contractor in the U.S. and use an IRS W-9 form?

Question

A reputable online firm is asking for independent contractors. I'm simply wondering if as a Canadian I am eligible. This is the actual text, "to work as a contractor in the U.S., be at least 18 years of age, and be able to complete an IRS Form W-9."
How do I know if I meet those requirements?

Answer 1

You would need a work visa or work permit to work in the US. You don't have a US SSN that is valid for employment so you can't complete a Form W-9.

On the other hand, if you can perform the work in Canada then you'll be fine. In that case, a Form W-9 would not be required and you would not pay any US tax on the income, just your usual Canadian tax.

Answer 2

You are not able to complete an IRS Form W-9 because only a U.S. person can sign an IRS Form W-9, which you're probably not. You should give them an IRS Form W-8BEN instead, if they'll accept it. http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw8ben.pdf

Second, you are eligible to work in the U.S. if you have a work visa. Do you?

Answer 3

Here's a link to the requirements.