When you sign up and fund your Stake account, we digitally complete the W-8BEN (or W9 if you are a US tax resident) for you.    

This reduces withholding tax on dividends from 30% to 15%. Stake has automated this process together with our US broker-dealer, so your documentation is complete and the appropriate withholding tax will be applied to your account.

You can view your latest W-8BEN form by heading to the Account section > Tax & Documents > US tax form

Also note that the W-8BEN remains valid for 3 years and we may require you to self-certify this again via our broker partner's portal.

Fees

We charge US$5 upon your first funding and you only pay this once. You'll see this fee on your first funding before you decide to transfer your funds. 

Purpose of the W-8BEN form

For listed securities, which derive income in the USA, the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires certain documentation from the ultimate beneficial owner to ensure the appropriate level of withholding tax is deducted.

We take care of this for you.