How you get paid (and the tax forms you will see)
Updated 31 Oct 2026
Almost every platform pays in US dollars, as an independent contractor payment. Set up the right account before your first payout, so your money is not delayed or lost to conversion fees.
Payout methods
The most common are PayPal, Payoneer, Wise, Airtm, Stripe Connect and Tremendous. See Payment methods for which platform uses which, plus tips to keep fees low.
Tip: if you live outside the US, avoid automatic currency conversion by PayPal. Withdraw USD to a multi-currency account and convert there.
Tax forms: W-9 and W-8BEN
US companies must document who they pay:
- W-9: for US citizens and US residents. You will usually receive a 1099 form at the end of the year.
- W-8BEN: for individuals who are not US persons. It certifies your foreign status. Contractors who do the work outside the US generally do not have US tax withheld on that service income, but you still owe tax where you live.
Fill these forms in carefully and use your legal name and address exactly as on your ID, because mismatches are a common reason for delayed payouts.
Paying tax in your own country
Contractor income is normally taxable where you live, and many countries require you to register as self-employed or declare foreign income. Rules differ by country, so check with a local accountant.
This guide is general information, not tax advice.