If you have accounts receivables from a US entity, you may get the request for a W8-BEN or a W8-Ben-E form. Without this form, the payor of your accounts receivable will withhold a non-resident tax. The only way to get the refund of the tax is to file a US non-resident return, either a 1040NR for  individuals or a 1120F for corporations. The waiver form indicates to the payor that you are exempt from US taxation under the Canada/U.S. tax treaty.

Note that if you are considered to be carrying on business in the United States, then the waiver may not apply if it is  considered that you also have a permanent establishment in the United States by virtue of Article V of the treaty. In this regard you should obtain professional advice on Read More