Comment by foxglacier

My point is that the form is too burdensome. You said there were instructions in the guide, implying that makes it easy enough. However, even with the help of the guide, it's still too much work. You're suggesting consulting a professional which is ridiculous. This is not even "one's taxes", this form is specifically for people not paying tax to America. I can only assume it's even more difficult for people who do pay American tax.

Don't forget that this is for a random one-man business in another country doing a $100 job for a US client. The cost of what you're suggesting is completely disproportionate to the value of the transaction.

> Isn't it clear that you are to look at the FATCA regs for additional definitions?

Not at all. The form tells you to look at the instructions, not the FATCA regs. I have no idea what FATCA regs are or what FATCA even is. That's just more obscene over-complication.

Yes, the IRS does dump a bunch of jargon on you and leave you to Google it. "Google" here means searching the laws and regulations but probably Google itself because it's easier.