[PLEASE NOTE: this article does not offer tax advice, only tax information. Every individual’s tax situation is different. At BigSpeak Speakers Bureau, we recommend you consult a tax professional for all your tax questions.]

If you are a keynote speaker looking to make speaking your career, you’re probably not thinking about taxes. However, when you start earning fees around the United States and the world, your tax situation becomes complicated. 

Likewise, if you’re an international speaker giving a keynote in the United States, you might be thinking more about the event than how much you will be taxed. 

Taxes can be complicated. And if speaking becomes your career, you will want to hire a tax professional.

So, here are a few things you will need to think about if you are a US citizen or an International speaker.

US citizens (or resident aliens)

Tax Status

Keynote speakers are typically independent contractors. That means they are solely responsible for their tax obligations, including income tax and self-employment taxes (Social Security and Medicare). 

This means income taxes and self-employment taxes are not withheld from a speaker’s fee payment by the event organizer unless the speaker is subject to backup withholding.

Note: If you are booked through a US speakers bureau, you will only be responsible for the taxes on the net fee you receive, not the total fee charged to the client.

Tax Number

In order to be paid in the United States, you need to have a Social Security number or an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). If you do not have a Social Security number, apply for an ITIN from the IRS.

Tax Forms

Some organizations will ask you to fill out the IRS W-9 form for tax reporting. The W-9 form, or Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, is used by businesses to collect tax information (legal name, ITIN, address, etc.) from independent contractors, freelancers, and other non-employees.

You also may receive a 1099 from the organization at the end of the year.

State Taxes

If you speak in different states, depending on how much you earn and the tax laws of the state, you may have to file a tax return in that state.

International Taxes

If you speak abroad, you could be subject to double taxation. Many countries have a tax treaty with the United States, so you only have to pay taxes to one country for your income. If you speak abroad regularly, you may want to find a tax professional with international experience.

Deductions

As an independent contractor, you could deduct legitimate business expenses, such as travel, marketing, and professional development. Remember to maintain accurate records of your expenses.

International Speakers (Nonresident Aliens)

Tax Status

For tax purposes, most nonresident alien keynote speakers are considered independent contractors who receive income from personal services, unless they are employed by another organization. 

Nonresident aliens are subject to withholding taxes at the federal and state level (depending on the state). This means federal and state taxes could be withheld, up to about 40% of your fee (depending on the tax treaty of your country).

Note: If you are booked through a US speakers bureau, you will only be responsible for the taxes on the net fee you receive, not the total fee charged to the client.

Tax Number

In order to be paid in the United States, all nonresident alien keynote speakers need an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) or qualify for exemption under Form W-8. Should you need to apply for an ITIN, do so with the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as soon as possible, as it can take between 6 and 10 weeks to process your request.

Tax Forms

Form W-9

Some organizations will ask you to fill out the IRS W-9 form for tax reporting. The W-9 form, or Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, is used by businesses to collect tax information (legal name, ITIN, address, etc.) from independent contractors, freelancers, and other non-employees. Normally, you’ll use a version of the W-8 form (most likely the W-8BEN for individuals).

Form W-8

The W-8 form is used to certify that a person or entity is a non-U.S. resident (foreign individual or business) and not subject to certain U.S. tax requirements. It is primarily used for withholding tax purposes. Form W-8BEN is for use by individuals, and Form W-8BEN-E is for use by entities.

Form 8233

If you are claiming tax treaty benefits on income for services and operate as an individual, you will need to complete Form 8233 in addition to Form W-8BEN.

State Taxes

If you speak in different states, depending on the tax laws of the state, you may have additional tax withheld. This amount varies from state to state and could also be zero for states that do not have an income tax.

Federal Taxes

All nonresident aliens are subject to a 30% withholding federal tax unless their country of residence has a tax treaty with a different tax rate. Check with your tax professional if your country of residence has a tax treaty with a different rate. (For tax treaty benefits for personal services, you will need to complete Form 8233.)

International Taxes

As a nonresident alien, you could be subject to double taxation. You may have to pay taxes to the US and to your country of residence. However, many countries have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation. Check with your tax professional to find out.

Travel Stipends

For nonresident alien keynote speakers, your travel stipend could also be subject to federal withholding (but not state withholding). However, exact reimbursements for travel are typically not taxed.

For more on your tax situation, please consult a tax professional or contact the Internal Revenue Service.