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US Tax

Marisawright
Posts: 24
Message
on 01/24/2012

I've published an ebook with Smashwords and also want to make a Kindle version - but for both, I need to apply for a US tax number. The whole process seems tedious, how have other non-US writers found it?

One thing that worries me is that I need to either send my passport, or send a copy that's been certified by the issuing authority - and I'm pretty sure the Australian Passport Office won't be able to give me an Apostille or whatever it's called.  They're unheard of here.


Marisa
wrylilt
Posts: 207
Message
on 01/24/2012

Can't you do it directly through Amazon for Kindle without the number? I'm not positive you can but maybe it would be easier?

I have a link to a video which guides you through the steps of putting an eBook on Amazon, email me if you want the link.

MaryF
Posts: 2
Message
on 01/25/2012

Don't bother up front Marisa - its only an issue if you are earning enough to want them to stop withholding 30% of your gross. In fact they sent me the first check without withholding any thing - so maybe there is a minimum you have to hit? 

Anyways - its a pain apparently -so don't bother unless its costing you lots of money! 

Marisawright
Posts: 24
Message
on 01/25/2012

 

wrylilt: 24. Jan 2012, 20:45

Can't you do it directly through Amazon for Kindle without the number? I'm not positive you can but maybe it would be easier?

 

You can publish, but I understood they would withhold 30% if you didn't give them a US tax number. 

Smashwords (which does all the other formats) withholds the 30% tax unless you give them a US tax number, but you can ask them to hold your payments as long as you like, until you get the paperwork done.  So I published there immediately. 

The way I originally read the Amazon site, you need the number upfront, but I just found this page which says they'll refund you the tax if you get the number later:

https://kdp.amazon.com/self-publishing/help?topicId=A1VDYJ32T5D3U4


Marisa
Marisawright
Posts: 24
Message
on 01/25/2012

 

MaryF: 25. Jan 2012, 03:41

Don't bother up front Marisa - its only an issue if you are earning enough to want them to stop withholding 30% of your gross.

It's funny you see it that way.  I was thinking the opposite - if I'm only making a few dollars, all the more reason I want to get 100% not 70%!

Interesting they didn't withhold anything though.


Marisa
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