Indirect Tax for Partners FAQ
Note: Indirect tax is not applicable for US partners. Refer to the EIN/SSN/Foreign Tax Id instead.
This FAQ explains how indirect tax, such as VAT, GST, and other region-specific tax policies, is handled for partners using impact.com. Whether you're a creator or a partner, understanding how and when these taxes are applied ensures accurate billing and compliance. Use this guide to learn when indirect tax is levied, how to update your tax information, and what to do if you've relocated or your tax status has changed.
What if I'm not registered for tax?
If you don’t have a tax number, you should see an option to select No, I am not registered for tax. If you are based in the United States or working with a U.S. brand, you will still be required to provide a relevant tax form.
Is indirect tax the same as VAT?
Yes. Indirect tax is the global term impact.com uses for Canada’s Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), the Quebec Sales Tax (QST), what some countries call the Goods and Services Tax (GST), the Value-added Tax (VAT), Spain Withholding Taxes (WHT), and other country- or region- specific tax policies. It is a type of tax that is not directly levied on income or profits but rather on goods and services.
I am not registered for tax as my income falls below the threshold required to apply for tax. How can I complete my profile without a tax number?
Indirect tax is also known as VAT or GST and is a tax charged on goods and services. If you are not a company that has a registered VAT number, select I am not registered for indirect tax. Then check the box in the left column to confirm your tax information.
I tried to put my TIN number, but it keeps rejecting my input. What should I do?
You should not be putting in an individual TIN, but your company’s VAT number instead. If you are an individual or a company that does not have a VAT number, select I am not registered for indirect tax.
When is indirect tax levied?
If both parties are registered for indirect tax in the same country or region, then the tax is levied when a transaction occurs. You can also view the aggregated indirect taxes when an invoice is produced.
You’ll declare if you are registered for indirect tax during the sign-up process. When you do, you’ll also provide your indirect tax number and the country in which you are registered.
The table below provides some examples of when indirect tax is levied or not:
UK
UK
Yes
Germany
UK
No*
Germany
Germany
Yes
Not registered
Canada
No
Not registered
Not registered
No
Australia
US
No
Spain
Spain
Yes
* A reverse charge mechanism would apply in the European zone, so indirect tax is levied at 0%
Where can I access my indirect tax number?
From the top navigation bar, select
[User profile] → Settings. Under General, select Company Information.
Under Tax Information, view your Indirect Tax Number.
If you aren’t registered for indirect tax, this field will be blank.
Can I remove or update my indirect tax number?
While you can remove or update your indirect tax information, we recommend that you avoid doing so unless it's necessary, e.g., you did not previously qualify for indirect tax and now you qualify. Changing this information affects whether the appropriate rates are billed against your actions and whether the correct amounts get added to your monthly invoice.
If you are unsure whether or not you should change your indirect tax information, please contact support.
From the top navigation bar, select
[User profile] → Settings. Under Finance, select Tax Information.
Update the relevant information and select Save.
Should I change my indirect tax number if I relocate to a different country or region?
Only if you are registered for indirect tax in the country or region to which you have relocated. If you aren’t sure, ask your Legal or Compliance teams to find out, or reach out to the appropriate legal counsel.
If VAT was not added, once an action was generated, can we add it afterward?
No, impact.com only levies indirect tax at the time the action occurs.
Which tax form should I use?
The tax form you should use depends on your location and whether you’re registering as an individual or a business entity:
Form W-9: Use if you're based in the United States.
Form W8-BEN: Use if you're an individual not based in the United States and partnered with US-based brands.
Form W8-BEN-E: Use if you're an entity not based in the United States and partnered with US-based brands.
Is the EIN/SSN/Foreign Tax ID and the indirect tax number the same?
No. EIN/SSN is specific to US partners and, like the foreign tax ID, in no way related to indirect tax.
The EIN/SSN and foreign tax ID is obtained from the following tax documents:
EIN/SSN from a W9
Foreign tax ID from a W8
Note: If you have any business in the United States, you must submit the appropriate Form W tax form. Learn which form you should use depending on your circumstances and about the tax form differences.
As an individual with no registered company, how do I get an indirect tax code?
If you're an individual, not operating through a registered company, but still need to get an indirect tax code, here are some general steps you might need to follow (depending on the country you're in):
Consider getting professional assistance: If you're unsure about the registration process or obligations, it's a good idea to consult with an accountant or tax professional to ensure you're meeting all legal requirements.
Determine eligibility
You generally need to be involved in activities where indirect taxes apply. For example, if you're providing goods or services, or selling taxable items as an individual (not as a company), you may need to register for VAT or GST if your sales exceed a certain threshold.
Note: Thresholds differ by country, so check if your income or turnover meets the required amount for registration.
Check your local tax authority guidelines
In many jurisdictions, you can apply for an indirect tax code as a sole proprietor or individual if you're engaged in taxable business activities. For example, in countries like the UK, Canada, or Australia, you can register for VAT/GST without needing to form a company.
Register with tax authorities
You can register online or in person, depending on the offerings your country has. You'll need to complete an application, providing details about your business activities, turnover, etc. For example, in the UK you can register for VAT as a sole trader if your taxable turnover exceeds £85,000. You can do this on the HMRC website .
Understand the obligations
Once registered, you will be responsible for charging, collecting, and remitting the indirect tax (such as VAT or GST) on your sales. You’ll also need to file regular returns, pay the tax collected, and keep records of your transactions.
Last updated
Was this helpful?