« Back to FAQs Why is BMI asking for a new tax form?

In some cases, the IRS requires that you provide an updated form to BMI on a set schedule. For example, Form W-8BEN expires at the end of the 3rd calendar year from which it is signed.

Another reason BMI may request an updated tax form is due to a Change in Circumstance that we have been made aware of pursuant to the guidelines below.

Change of address to an address in the United States
If a foreign person’s address changes to the U.S., the submitter is required to notify BMI within 30 days of the change in circumstances and file a tax form as appropriate. A change in circumstance can now include a change in phone number to a U.S. phone number, in addition to a change in address.

Move outside the country where the submitter has been claiming treaty benefits
If a foreign person claiming treaty benefits moves to another foreign country, the submitter is required to notify BMI within 30 days of the change in circumstances and file a new tax form.
Note: The submitter is not required to submit a new tax form if the change of address is to another address within the same foreign country.

The submitter becomes a U.S. Citizen or resident alien after the form is submitted
If the submitter becomes a U.S. citizen or resident alien, they are no longer subject to the NRA 30% withholding rate. The submitter must notify BMI within 30 days of becoming a U.S. citizen or resident alien. A new form W-9 may be requested.
Note: If the submitter is a dual citizen, and one of the countries of citizenship is the US, they must submit a W-9 form and will be considered a US person regardless of their other citizenship country.