General
Contractors must provide their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to the government for payment, debt collection, and IRS reporting purposes.
Overview
FAR 4.902 establishes the requirement for contractors doing business with the federal government to provide their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to the agency. This requirement is rooted in federal statutes aimed at facilitating debt collection and ensuring accurate information reporting to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The TIN is used by the government for both collecting and reporting on delinquent debts and for fulfilling IRS reporting obligations related to contract and payment information.
Key Rules
- TIN Submission Requirement
- Contractors must furnish their TIN to the government agency with which they are doing business.
- Government Use of TIN
- The government must include the contractor’s TIN on each certified payment voucher and may use the TIN for debt collection and IRS reporting purposes.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure contractors provide their TIN and that it is included in payment documentation.
- Contractors: Must supply their TIN when doing business with the government.
- Agencies: Must use the TIN for debt collection and IRS reporting as required by law.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures the government can track payments, report to the IRS, and collect delinquent debts efficiently.
- Contractors who fail to provide a TIN may face payment delays or compliance issues.
- Accurate TIN reporting is critical for both payment processing and tax compliance.