Tenant asking landlord for W9

[Lee L.]

One of my tenants is asking me for a W9. Ever since they've moved in, they've been paying their rent in 3 checks: a personal check, a check from their first business, and a check from their second business. This has not been a problem so far. They're great tenants who I intend to keep. They're creative types and do freelance from home for a living.

Are there any reasons why I shouldn't fill this out for them? 

Thanks for the help!!

[Nicholas Schommer]

If they are freelancers and deducting housing expenses for a "business in the home" situation, they have no need for your TIN, they just need to have accurate records in case they were to get audited (which is accounted for with the use of their business checks to pay for part of the costs). They only reason they would need your TIN is if they are applying for some state credit that requires "documented proof" that they have indeed paid the rent with business funds, but that would be a state specific form and not a W9. I am just skeptical of someone asking for information that they A.) do not need and B.) could do bad things with. This is just my two cents worth, take it for what you will.