Need advice for getting paid for my photo?

One of my photo online was used by a local newspaper. They mentioned that they can pay me for the photo but would need my SSN before paying me. Is this normal? Should I send them my SSN over email? Thanks a lot.

Absolutely not via email - ever - but they do need it for the 1099 form that they will send you for the IRS. You go on their books as an independent contractor and you are responsible for your own taxes.

aphphoto wrote in post #11550306
Absolutely not via email - ever - but they do need it for the 1099 form that they will send you for the IRS. You go on their books as an independent contractor and you are responsible for your own taxes.

Thanks a lot for your reply
They mentioned that there is no form I need to fill for this process, just asked me to send them my address and SSN. Should I call them to provide the information instead, would that be better? Thank you very much.

make sure this people are legit first before you give them your SSN.

PhilF wrote in post #11550417
make sure this people are legit first before you give them your SSN.

Thank you for your advice. I checked their website before. It is a pretty large local newspaper. Just feel a little bit concerned when they asked for my SSN. Not sure what to do.

Call and ask for their accounts payable person or department.

Hmm... Anyone have 'lifelock'?

I suggest that you apply for a Tax ID number to use instead of using your social security number. Once you get the Tax ID number, you will be a little more secure in situations like this.

Normally, you need to provide a signed W-2 for all 1099 payments. The Tax ID or SSN is on the W-2.