As an Indian exporter, navigating the complexities of international transactions and compliance can feel like solving a complex puzzle. Today, we'll explore a crucial piece of that puzzle: FIRC

FIRC full form is Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate. It is a document issued by banks as proof of receiving international payments. Over the years, regulations around FIRC have changed significantly, creating confusion and mystery around this important document. Let's clear the air and decode the what, who, and why of FIRC.

FIRC or Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate serves as a proof of foreign money transfer for exporters in India. Until 2016, <a href="https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/FEMAMASTER/PDFs/1061.PDF">AD (Authorised Dealer) Category I Banks</a> were authorised to issue FIRCs to exporters for receiving payments from foreign sources. This document was essential for exporters to obtain after each cross-border payment. It served not only as proof of payment receipt but also as a crucial document for claiming export-related incentives, such as tax exemptions on foreign currency payments received in India.

As we've covered, the full form of FIRC is Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate and for a long time it served as proof of export income from abroad. However, with changing regulations, the function of FIRC has also changed significantly. Let's take a look:

FIRA is often still referred to by its old name, FIRC. While both documents serve the same purpose, FIRC is technically only issued for returns on&nbsp;Foreign Direct Investment (FDI )or Foreign Institutional Investment (FII). For all other export collections, FIRA/BIRC is what you need.

For clarity, we'll use the term FIRC moving forward, but it refers to FIRA throughout.

Anyone receiving foreign payments needs FIRC.&nbsp; Beyond goods and service exporters engaging in international trade, many individuals and entities may receive international payments without realising it.&nbsp;

Overall, the following typically require a FIRC:

Beyond compliance, here’s why FIRC is crucial for exporters:

FIRCs are issued by AD Category I banks. You can contact your bank to get your FIRC after receiving your foreign payment. <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-get-firc-certificate-online">Alternatively, you can also use platforms like Skydo to get your FIRC instantly after every payment.&nbsp;</a>

Who Needs FIRC and Why It’s Important for Exporters?

FIRC (Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate) is essential for anyone receiving foreign payments, including:

Exporters, in particular, rely on FIRC for two key reasons:

FIRC is issued by Authorized Dealer (AD) Category I banks, and businesses can obtain it directly from their bank. However, it is usually a cumbersome process requiring multiple follow-ups and most banks charge around INR 500 to issue each FIRC.&nbsp;In contrast, platforms like Skydo offer a fast, hassle-free solution, providing an instant FIRC for free after every foreign payment—no manual requests, no extra costs.

This is a sample FIRC document. All crucial remittance details have been masked for security purposes. Now let’s break the content of a FIRC down: 

Receiving your export payment directly through your bank can make obtaining an FIRC a lengthy process. You need to submit a request to the bank, and the bank typically takes 7-15 days to provide the FIRC. You may also need to follow up multiple times, and banks often charge at least INR 400 to issue the FIRC, depending on the institution.

<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-to-get-firc-certificate-online">Getting a FIRC</a> might sound like a hassle, but with Skydo, it's a breeze. Our fully automated payment system along with built-in partnerships with banks, ensures effortless compliance with RBI guidelines, without needing any manual intervention.

When you receive an export payment through Skydo, we automatically generate the required FIRC for you at no extra cost. Just log into our user-friendly dashboard, and you'll find your FIRC ready to download, complete with all the details you need. 

In conversations around FIRC, there are a few more terms that get frequently mentioned, one of them being eFIRC. So what exactly is <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/efirc-firc-brc-essentials-differences">eFIRC?</a>

What is the difference between eBRC and FIRC?

Generally speaking, e-BRC applies mostly to goods and software exporters (under <a href="https://stpi.in/en/home?no_follow=true/">STPI</a>). If you are one of them, you can use this simple decision tree to understand which documents you will need:

Exporting goods and services is considered Zero-Rated Supply, meaning it is subject to 0% GST. However, to claim a GST refund for the input tax credit, exporters must provide the required documents including FIRC. These documents authenticate that the business is claiming a refund because it exported services and couldn't offset its input tax credit as it would in normal domestic business. Without FIRC, claiming a GST refund may not be possible

As we surge in cross-border transactions, ensuring compliance and safeguarding against illicit activities has become a pressing concern. However, at Skydo, we believe your focus should be on advancing your business, not on grappling with compliance challenges.

With Skydo, enjoy seamless international payments, delivered promptly and without any hidden fees. But that's just the beginning! Every time you receive a cross-border payment, an auto-generated FIRC is readily available for you to download, relieving you of compliance burdens so you can devote your energy to what truly matters: driving your business forward.

FIRC full form is Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate. Learn what FIRC is, its importance for exporters and freelancers, and how to obtain it easily

FIRC: Full form, meaning and RBI guidelines

Dive into the world of FIRC. Explore the full form, importance, and process of obtaining FIRC for your international transactions

Foreign Inward Remittance Certificate (FIRC): Full form, meaning and RBI guidelines

Prashanth

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Prashanth Kumar

Imagine landing your first international client for your handmade jewelry, only to have your shipment held up at customs because your IEC (Importer Exporter Code) status shows "pending verification." This scenario plays out frequently for Indian businesses and freelancers who overlook IEC verification (an initiative by the government of India), leading to costly delays, storage charges, and potentially lost clients. The good news? A simple online verification process can help you avoid these headaches and ensure smooth international shipping.&nbsp;

This guide will explain how to check your IEC status online, understand different verification statuses, and prepare your business for hassle-free international trade.

An IEC is your passport for international trade. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) gives this unique 10-digit number to businesses and freelancers who want to trade internationally.

You need to verify your IEC details because:

There are two simple ways to verify your IEC

Step 1: Open your web browser and go to the <a href="https://www.dgft.gov.in/CP/">DGFT</a> website

Step 2: Look for the Login button at the top of the page. Type in your username and password

Step 3: Find and click on Services in the menu. Now look for IEC Management and click on it

Step 4: Here, you need to put in your PAN details and click Submit to see your IEC status or download your IEC certificate

Step 1: Visit the <a href="https://www.icegate.gov.in/">ICEGATE website</a>

Step 2: Find and click User Login under Services.&nbsp;

Step 3: After logging in, look for Check IE Code/BIN Status. Type in your IEC number, complete the captcha, and click IE Code @ ICEGATE to see your status

What are the Different Statuses of IEC Code Verification?

When you check your IEC application status, you'll see one of these status messages:

It means your application is being processed. You need to wait for four days to get the next update. During this time, DGFT officers review your documents and verify your international business details. You can use this waiting period to set up other aspects of your export business, like preparing product catalogs or finalizing your pricing strategy.

It means something wasn't quite right about your application process, and it got rejected (for example, maybe your address proof wasn't clear enough in the application). The next step could be to fix the issues and apply again (no extra fees needed). The good news is that the system will highlight which documents or details need correction, making fixing it easier. Most rejections are resolved within one resubmission, so don't get discouraged if this happens to you.

It means the DGFT has approved your <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/iec-code-apply-online">IEC application</a> and sent it to customs. The next step is to wait three days for customs clearance. During this time, your information is being integrated into the customs database, allowing you to ship goods internationally. You can track this status daily on the ICEGATE portal to know exactly when your code becomes active.

Registered by DGFT and Accepted by ICEGATE

It means you're all set to start your import and export operations. This status confirms that DGFT and customs systems recognize your IEC as valid and active. You can now register with shipping companies, apply for export benefits, and start accepting international orders and gigs with confidence that your documentation is complete and valid.

What are the Benefits of IEC Code Verification?

Picture losing a ₹5 lakh international project because your IEC verification wasn't current—it happens more often than you'd think. Understanding the benefits of IEC verification isn't just about following rules; it's about protecting your business and unlocking opportunities that could take your export activities to the next level.

When your IEC is verified, you'll breeze through customs checks without delays. A verified status means your documentation moves much faster, saving you time and money.

A verified IEC builds confidence in your business relationships. International clients can easily confirm that you're a legitimate freelancer. For businesses, shipping companies are more likely to process your orders quickly (keep the shipping bills handy), and banks view you as a credible business partner for financial services.

Regular verification acts as a security measure for your business. You can quickly spot if someone tries to misuse your IEC number for unauthorized trades. This verification status also serves as solid proof of your legitimate trading activities if questions ever arise.

With a verified IEC, you can easily access government export schemes for businesses like yours. Banks are more willing to offer export financing options, and you can confidently register for international trade shows. Plus, claiming benefits like duty drawback becomes much smoother.&nbsp;

What are the Common IEC verification issues and their fixes?&nbsp;

Below are some of the common IEC verification issues and their fixes you must know of:&nbsp;

If the status isn't updating: The system typically needs 24 hours to reflect changes, so patience is key. Early morning hours often work best for checking status updates. If you're still having trouble, try clearing your browser data for a fresh start.

Having login troubles: Most login issues have simple solutions. Check if you typed your username correctly. If you can't get in, use the password reset option. A common oversight is having caps locked on, so watch out for that. Always use the email address you registered with.

Website issues: The best time to check is early morning, between 6 AM and 8 AM, when there's less traffic. If you're using your phone, try switching to a computer instead. Sometimes, the problem is as simple as an unstable internet connection.

What Happens if I Don’t Verify my IEC Code?&nbsp;

Here are the potential consequences of not verifying your IEC Code number:&nbsp;

Receive Export Payments Seamlessly with Skydo&nbsp;

Having a verified IEC is your ticket to smooth international trade. However, it's equally important to manage your global payments efficiently. While traditional payment methods can reduce earnings through high fees and exchange rates, modern solutions like Skydo offer better rates for local receiving accounts.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.skydo.com/">Get started with Skydo!&nbsp;</a>

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Working with international clients is exciting, but dealing with taxes? Not so much!

If you're providing services abroad, you might be worried about getting taxed twice - once in the client's country and again in India. For instance, when a US client pays you, they might deduct their local tax, and India wants its share, too!&nbsp;

This is where the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) comes to your rescue. And to claim it, you need to fill out Form 67.&nbsp;

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps of filing Form 67, and how to claim a Foreign Tax Credit for taxes you've already paid abroad. No more paying twice for the same income!

What is the Foreign Tax Credit in Form 67?&nbsp;

Foreign Tax Credit is a mechanism that allows you to claim credit in India for taxes you've already paid in another country on your foreign income. It's designed to prevent double taxation - paying full taxes twice on the same income. You must file Form 67 with the Indian tax department to claim this credit.

It's like getting a discount on your Indian taxes for the tax you've already paid in another country.&nbsp;

Here's a quick example to make it clearer:

Let's say you're a freelance graphic designer in India who did work for a United States company:

Using Form 67, you can claim credit for the ₹62,250 already paid in the US:

Final tax you pay in India: INR1,24,500 - INR62,250 = INR 62,250

This way, you're not paying full tax twice on the same foreign source income. Just remember to file Form 67 before your tax return and keep proof of the foreign tax you paid so that you can claim your foreign tax credit.

Overview of Foreign Tax Credit in India&nbsp;

India has set up specific rules to help you claim credit for taxes paid abroad - it's like getting a refund on your Indian taxes for what you've already paid in other countries.&nbsp;

India manages FTC through two main sections of tax law:

<a href="https://kb.icai.org/pdfs/PDFFile5b4f2a767133a8.00550566.pdf">Section 90</a> - For countries with tax agreements

Like having a mutual discount arrangement, India has DTAAs (think of them as tax-saving partnerships) with many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany.

Let's take the India-US agreement, for example. If you work with US clients, they might deduct a maximum of <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/in/Documents/tax/in-tax-gbt-us-llc-eligible-for-india-us-tax-treaty-benefit-noexp.pdf">15%</a> tax on your payments (lower than usual rates!). You can claim this as credit in India. This agreement makes it easier for freelancers and businesses to work across borders without worrying about paying hefty taxes twice.

Remember: These agreements are like a VIP pass—they give you special tax benefits that you wouldn't get otherwise!&nbsp;

Section 91 - For countries without agreements

You can still claim credit for taxes paid, but following Indian tax rules.&nbsp;

Here's a simple example for Section 91: Suppose you earn ₹3,00,000 from a property in Brazil. You paid ₹75,000 (25%) tax there and owe ₹90,000 (30%) in India. You can claim the lower amount (₹75,000) as credit, so you'll only pay ₹15,000 more in India.

Think of it as a general credit system instead of a particular arrangement.&nbsp;

Rules for Claiming Foreign Tax Credit in India (Rule 128)

For example, If you paid INR 10,000 abroad but the Indian tax would be INR 8,000, you can claim INR 8,000

When claiming your tax credit, remember that only the actual tax you paid counts - any late fees, penalties, or interest charges won't qualify for credit. If you're working with clients from different countries, you must keep each country's calculations separate.&nbsp;

Stay away from claiming credit for any taxes that are under dispute, as this could cause problems later. Lastly, always convert your foreign earnings to rupees using official exchange rates, as the tax department won't accept any other conversion method.

The point is to avoid paying full tax twice on the same income while keeping things fair for both countries. You wouldn't want to pay the total price for the same item at two different stores!&nbsp;

Documents Required to Claim Foreign Tax Credit with Form 67 in India

When claiming FTC with Form 67, you'll need some paperwork to prove your foreign income and taxes paid—think of it as keeping receipts for your tax deductions.&nbsp;

Form 67: How to Claim Foreign Tax Credit with Form 67?&nbsp;

To claim the Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) in India using Form 67, a resident taxpayer must follow a structured process and provide specific documentation. Below are the steps:&nbsp;

Step 1: Log in to the e-filling portal of the Income Tax department using your valid user ID and password. If you are a registered user, sign in directly.

Step 2: On the dashboard, click on e-File, then select Income Tax Forms, and choose File Income Tax Forms.

Step 3: On the next page, find and select Double Taxation Relief (Form 67).

Step 4: Select the relevant Assessment Year (A.Y.) for which you claim the FTC and click Continue.

Step 5: Click on Let’s Get Started on the instructions page.

Step 6: Complete the form with all required details, including personal and other basic information and foreign income details. Ensure accuracy before proceeding.

Step 7: After completing the form, click Preview to review all entered information.

Step 8: Attach necessary documents such as proof of payment for foreign tax, TDS certificates, and other relevant documentation.

Step 9: Click on Proceed to e-Verify after verifying your details.

Step 10: Confirm submission by clicking ‘Yes’ on the confirmation message. You will be redirected to the e-verify page.

After successful e-verification, a success message will appear along with a transaction ID and acknowledgement number for future reference. A confirmation email will also be sent to your registered email address.

For Assessment Year 2024-25, you must file Form 67 by December 31, 2024, before filing your Income Tax Return (ITR). Think of it like getting your paperwork in order before the main tax filing - you can't claim foreign tax credit without submitting Form 67 first, so mark this deadline on your calendar!&nbsp;

Form 67 is divided into four main parts. Here's what each part needs:

What happens if you don't file form 67?&nbsp;

Not filing Form 67 could mean saying goodbye to your foreign tax credit - you might end up paying tax twice on the same income! However, there's some good news: recent rules are more flexible. Even if you miss the initial deadline, you can file Form 67 until the end of the assessment year (for AY 2024-25, December 31, 2024).

Think of Form 67 as your ticket to avoiding double taxation - it might seem like a paperwork hassle, but it's worth it! And here's a pro tip: when receiving payments from abroad, using platforms like Skydo can make your life easier. We provide all the payment documentation you need for Form 67, like <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-firc-a-complete-guide">FIRC</a> and clear transaction records, right at your fingertips. Remember, whether you're a freelancer or business owner, staying organized with your foreign return of income documents is half the battle won!&nbsp;

Sign up<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog"> for Skydo!</a>

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W8 forms are IRS (Internal Revenue Service)&nbsp; forms that non-American individuals and businesses, including those in India, need to file if they’re earning from U.S. clients or employers. These forms help confirm your country of residence for tax purposes so that you can benefit from a reduced tax withholding rate or avoid double taxation.&nbsp;

With global work becoming the norm, many of us in India are earning from U.S. clients or companies. But figuring out international tax rules can feel like a maze, and without the right forms, you could lose more of your income to taxes. That’s where a W8 form comes in—they help you keep more of what you earn by reducing unnecessary U.S. tax withholdings. In this guide, we’ll walk you through W8 forms, so you can stay compliant and avoid losing out on your hard-earned income.

W8 forms are IRS forms that, Indian residents and companies earning from the US, must complete to qualify for a reduced U.S. tax withholding rate on income earned from U.S. sources. Although the IRS issues these forms, they aren’t submitted directly to the IRS. Instead, they are provided to the payer or withholding agent handling your U.S. income - basically your client or employer in the US.

Typically, your payer will ask you to submit the relevant W8 form before disbursing any payment. This ensures they apply the correct withholding rate as per U.S. tax treaties. Submitting the form to your payer in advance helps you avoid unnecessary tax deductions and ensures smoother payment processing.

Here’s a simple example: Imagine you’re an Indian resident working remotely for a U.S.-based company and receiving payment for your services. Although the payment comes from the U.S., since you’re performing the work outside the U.S., it’s considered foreign-sourced income by the US tax authorities. This means it’s generally not subject to U.S. tax withholding. If you were based in the US, your employer would deduct taxes from your income before paying you. At the end of the year, you would need to file a tax return to report your earnings and taxes paid.

To certify your foreign status as an Indian resident and avoid any automatic U.S. tax deductions, you would submit Form W8BEN to your employer. This form confirms that your income is foreign-sourced and only taxable in India, not the U.S

In the following section, we’ll break down the different types of W8 forms and how the U.S.-India tax agreement impacts your tax obligations.

W8 forms are filled by individuals or entities who aren’t US residents, but earn income from the U.S. This can include Indian freelancers and full-time employees working remotely or on-site, Indian investors in the US market, real estate owners having and earning from property in the US, Indian students, Indian businesses and non-profit organisations and more.&nbsp;

Here are some common income types that require a W8 form:

If you don’t submit the required Form W8, your income could be<a href="https://www.irs.gov/instructions/iw8ben"> taxed at 30% </a>under US tax laws. As an Indian resident, this same income would also be taxed in India, leading to double taxation.

What are the different types of W8 Forms?&nbsp;

There are 5 different types of W8 Forms depending on their usage

Form W8BEN ("Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding and Reporting") must be submitted by Indian individuals who receive certain types of income in the United States including royalty/passive income.&nbsp;

The form, sometimes referred to as a "certificate of foreign status," establishes that the individual is a foreign person earning from the US. You need to submit Form W8BEN when requested by the withholding agent or payer whether or not you are claiming a reduced rate of or exemption from the 30% tax rate.&nbsp;

Here’s what Form W8BEN looks like :&nbsp;

You can also download <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw8ben.pdf">Form W8BEN right here</a>

The W8BEN-E form serves a similar purpose as the W8BEN but is specifically designed for foreign businesses and entities rather than individuals. Like individuals, income earned by foreign entities from U.S. sources is also typically subject to a 30% withholding tax. However, by submitting a correctly completed W8BEN-E, Indian businesses will qualify for a reduced withholding rate as per the India-US Income tax treaty.&nbsp;

Here’s what the first page of Form W8BEN-E looks like:

You can download the entire<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw8bene.pdf"> Form W8BEN-E right here</a>

Form W8ECI is for Indian individuals and entities conducting business in the U.S. and earning income directly connected to that business—known as ‘effectively connected income’ (ECI). The key benefit of ECI is that it’s taxed at a lower rate than non-business income like interest or dividends.&nbsp;

You can <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw8eci.pdf">download Form W8ECI right here</a>

Form W8EXP is for foreign entities like governments, banks, and nonprofits to claim tax exemptions or reduced withholding on U.S. income

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw8exp.pdf">You can download Form W8EXP right here</a>

Form W8IMY is for foreign intermediaries like banks, brokers, and mutual funds to certify their status and claim reduced tax withholding on U.S. income received on behalf of clients. It ensures proper tax compliance and smooth handling of client obligations.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw8imy.pdf">You can download the full Form W8IMY right here</a>

If you're an Indian freelancer, service provider, or exporter earning from U.S. clients, the W8BEN or W8BEN-E forms are likely the ones you need. Filling out the right W8 form is crucial—not just to stay compliant with U.S. tax laws but also to avoid unnecessary or double taxation on your income.&nbsp;

What is the Difference Between Form W8BEN and Form W8 BEN-E?

For most Indian residents, and businesses with U.S.-sourced income, the relevant forms are Form W8BEN and Form W8BEN-E. The key difference between them is: Form W8BEN is for individuals, while Form W8BEN-E is for entities (such as businesses) receiving U.S.-sourced income.

Which Countries Have an Income Tax Treaty with the US?

The United States has income tax treaties with various foreign countries, allowing residents (not necessarily citizens) of those countries to benefit from reduced tax rates or exemptions on certain U.S.-sourced income. These tax benefits vary by country and type of income.

If a tax treaty applies to your income, filing the appropriate W8 form can help you claim these benefits and reduce unnecessary U.S. tax withholding. However, if your income type isn’t covered by a treaty—or if no treaty exists between your country and the U.S.—you’ll generally be taxed at the standard rate, as outlined in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1040-nr">Form 1040NR (U.S. Nonresident Alien Income Tax Return) instructions.</a>

Tax treaties often work both ways, meaning U.S. residents earning income in treaty countries may also qualify for similar tax benefits abroad, such as credits, deductions, and reduced tax rates. Some of the countries with which the US has income tax treaties include:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/international-businesses/united-states-income-tax-treaties-a-to-z">You can find the full list of countries right here</a>

India-United States International Income Tax Treaty

The India-U.S. Income Tax Treaty has been effective since 1st&nbsp; JANUARY 1991 and it is an agreement that helps Indian and U.S. residents avoid being taxed twice on the same income. It’s designed to make earning across borders easier, fairer, and more financially efficient.

Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)

If you’re an Indian resident earning income from the U.S., or vice versa, the treaty can provide tax credits to prevent double taxation. For instance, if you’ve paid tax on U.S. income, you may be eligible for a credit in India on that same income.

The treaty reduces withholding tax rates on certain U.S.-sourced income, like dividends, interest, and royalties. For example, instead of the standard 30% tax on dividends, Indian residents often qualify for a reduced 15% rate.

Business Profits and Permanent Establishment (PE):

If you run a business, the treaty ensures you won’t be taxed in the other country unless you have a significant, ongoing presence (called a "permanent establishment" or PE) there.&nbsp;

The treaty also allows India and the U.S. to share tax information, which helps prevent tax evasion and promotes transparency.

File a W8 Form: If you’re an Indian resident earning income from the U.S., submitting a W8 form can qualify you for a lower tax rate under the treaty.

Claim Tax Credits: When filing taxes in India, you can often claim a credit for taxes paid/withheld in the U.S., reducing your total tax burden.

In short, the India-U.S. Tax Treaty makes it easier to earn across borders without paying double, offering lower tax rates on certain incomes and supporting a fairer tax process for cross-border business and work.

How do I fill out a W8 Form as an Indian?

If you’re an Indian earning income from the U.S., the first step is figuring out which W8 form applies to you. The type of W8 form you need depends on whether you’re an individual or a business, and the type of income you’re receiving. 

As we’ve mentioned, for Indian residents and businesses Form W8BEN and Form W8BEN-E are what will be most relevant respectively.&nbsp; If you’re working with a U.S.-based employer or client, they may ask you to complete a W8 form to confirm your foreign status.

 Additionally, if you’re investing in U.S. stocks through a brokerage platform, the platform might also require this form.

How to fill Form W8BEN and Form W8BEN E?&nbsp;

Here’s a quick snapshot of how to fill Form W8BEN

Submit the completed form to your employer/client with accurate details to avoid delays.

Filling out Form W8BEN-E is similar to Form W8BEN but is designed for Indian businesses. It requires additional details about the business, such as its structure and tax status.&nbsp;

Here's a <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/filing-w-8ben-and-w-8ben-e-a-guide-for-indian-freelancers-and-businesses">detailed guide to fill Form W8 BEN and W8 BEN E</a> as Indian freelancers and businesses

W8 forms are valid from the date they’re signed until the end of the third calendar year following that date. For example, if you sign on April 15, 2024, it will remain valid until December 31, 2027, unless there are changes in your circumstances.

The benefits of filing the correct W8 Form include:

What Happens If You Don’t File a W8 Form?

While there’s no direct penalty for not filing a W8 form, you’ll miss out on valuable tax benefits. Without a W8 form, your U.S.-sourced income will automatically be taxed at 30%, as per U.S. regulations. By submitting the correct W8 form, you can qualify for lower tax rates on certain income types under applicable tax treaties.

Get Secure, Affordable Payments from the U.S. with Skydo

Receiving payments from the U.S. to India can be a hassle—and costly too. Banks often apply multiple fees, including forex markups, giving you a lower exchange rate than the live market rate, which cuts into your earnings. On top of that, getting payments on time can involve endless follow-ups with your bank.

With Skydo, it’s different. Once you've filled out the W8 form, you can receive payments seamlessly via Skydo. We provide international virtual accounts in the U.S., allowing your U.S. clients to pay you locally—no SWIFT charges involved. Plus, Skydo converts your payments at live forex rates with zero markups, so you keep more of what you earn. We’re ISO-certified, RBI-compliant, and we provide free, instant FIRAs for every transaction.

If you're a Skydo user, our Customer Support team can even help you fill out your W8 form. <a href="https://www.skydo.com/contact-us/support">Click here </a>to get in touch with our support team.

Switch to Skydo and experience faster, more affordable payments for your U.S. income

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When you export from India, regardless of the product or service, the invoice you send matters, not just for your client but also for GST compliance, customs documentation, and foreign exchange tracking.&nbsp;

One field that often confuses many new exporters and freelancers is the HSN code (also known as Harmonised System of Nomenclature). You may wonder:&nbsp;

Will it impact my GST (Goods and Services Tax) refund?

This blog clearly breaks down the concept of HSN code, the importance of HSN, and provides action steps to help you prepare your export invoices correctly and avoid delays.

What Is the Full Form of HSN? (And Why It Exists)

HSN full form is Harmonised System of Nomenclature. It's a globally accepted uniform classification system that identifies and categorises goods for customs and GST. It helps freelancers and exporters receive payments from abroad without unnecessary delays.

HSN came into effect in 1988, developed by the <a href="https://www.wcoomd.org/">World Customs Organization (WCO)</a>, and is now used by over 200 countries, including India.&nbsp;

If you are not familiar with the term HSN and its meaning, let us break it down for you:&nbsp;&nbsp;