W-9 form as nonresident alien for new bank account

This is our main tax information forum which deals with topics concerning Canadians living and working in the U.S., U.S. citizens contemplating working in Canada, and all aspects of Canadian and U.S. income tax and related adminstrative issues.

Moderator: Mark T Serbinski CA CPA

Post Reply
vanwa
Posts: 10
Joined: Mon Jun 25, 2012 11:11 am

W-9 form as nonresident alien for new bank account

Post by vanwa »

I moved to the US in September on a TN visa. I haven't met the substantial presence test yet so I am a non-resident alien.

Recently I opened an online savings account with Ally Bank and they sent me a W9 SSN identification number certification card to fill out. It clearly says "not applicable for non-resident aliens". I called Ally and they said they didn't know but suggested I call the IRS. Nowhere in their sign-up process did they ask me about my immigration or tax residency status.

What should I do? I'm thinking about emptying my account, let them freeze it for a couple months, then send in my W-9 when I've met the substantial presence test of 183 days. Seems kind of silly though. I've had no problems getting a credit card, a brokerage account, etc.
nelsona
Posts: 18675
Joined: Wed Oct 27, 2004 2:33 pm
Location: Nowhere, man

Post by nelsona »

You are a resident alien as of now. Fill the W-9.
After 20 years, I am severely cutting back on responses. Do not ask specifically for my help. There are a few others on this board that can answer most questions. All the best
vanwa
Posts: 10
Joined: Mon Jun 25, 2012 11:11 am

Post by vanwa »

But how can I be a resident alien? Are you suggesting I just pretend that i am? I really have not met the substantial presence test.
nelsona
Posts: 18675
Joined: Wed Oct 27, 2004 2:33 pm
Location: Nowhere, man

Post by nelsona »

You meet it by treaty, and you are filing a dual status return for 2012.
After 20 years, I am severely cutting back on responses. Do not ask specifically for my help. There are a few others on this board that can answer most questions. All the best
Post Reply