I’m a US person, why am I being asked to fill out an “Affidavit of Eligibility, Liability, and Publicity Release (substitute W9)”?
This form has multiple purposes. It collects tax information Microsoft is required to report to the IRS, it verifies your eligibility, it allows you to give Microsoft permission to use your name/photo/likeness in connection with the promotion, and it contains a standard liability clause that releases Microsoft from harm should there be any accidents/personal injuries, etc. Microsoft is required to collect this form from you (or your legal guardian if you are a minor) if you receive prizes, including travel, from Microsoft Corp (Redmond, WA) valued at $600 USD or greater during the course of Imagine Cup 2010. Based on your tax status (individual, corporation, university, etc), the prize(s) you receive may be considered “taxable income” by the IRS. If so, you will receive a Form 1099 tax form from Microsoft in January 2010, for the actual value of all prizes you received during Imagine Cup 2010. If you have further questions, you should consult a local tax professional to understand the
Related Questions
- Who prepares and issues the letters, email messages and Affidavits of Eligibility and the Releases for Publicity and Liability?
- I’m a US person, why am I being asked to fill out an "Affidavit of Eligibility, Liability, and Publicity Release (substitute W9)"?
- Do Prize Winners have to sign an affidavit of eligibility and publicity release?
