W-8BEN

IRS form: certifies your foreign status and claims tax-treaty benefits with US payers.

File W-8BEN with each US broker, bank, employer, and retirement-plan administrator BEFORE you depart and become NRA. Without it, default 30% FDAP withholding applies. With it (if your country has a treaty), the rate may drop materially. Some brokers will freeze your account if they detect a foreign address without an updated W-8BEN — handle this proactively.

Related terms

FDAP withholding (30%)
Default 30% US tax withholding on Fixed, Determinable, Annual or Periodic income paid to a non-resident alien.
401(k) rollover (vs cash-out)
Move your 401(k) to an IRA tax-deferred — vs. cashing out, which destroys 30-40% as an NRA.

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This is an information-only tool, not legal advice. You are responsible for your decisions. When in doubt, consult an immigration attorney.