TIN MISMATCH for Chat Agents

Initial Engagement with the Merchant

1. Response to TIN Mismatch Notification
   • Initial Engagement with the Merchant

Start by greeting the merchant, and verify that the contact information, email, and phone number are updated in the chat.

 

• If a merchant contacts Customer Service regarding a TIN mismatch, respond with the canned message below: Canned Response, Short code (TIN)

Yes, {{user.firstName}}, we received notice from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that the taxpayer identification number (TIN) Forte has on file for your account does not match what is registered with the IRS. We reached out to you as a courtesy to avoid any backup withholdings.  Please send in an updated W-9 to FedIDMatch@forte.net at your earliest convenience. If you have already sent in your updated W-9 you can disregard the notice, our team is working hard to update your information in our system.

 

TIN Mismatch & Legal Name Change Process

1. Overview of TIN
   • TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number): An identification number used by the IRS to administer tax laws, issued by either the Social Security Administration (SSA) or the IRS. TINs issued by the SSA include Social Security Numbers (SSNs), while the IRS issues all other TINs.
2. Approval Requirements
   • All changes require underwriting approval to verify legal compliance and account integrity.
3. Situational Process for Documentation and Application
   • Based on the following scenarios, additional documentation or a new application may be needed:
     • If the Personal Guaranty is Signed:
       • A new application is required.
     • If the Personal Guaranty is Not Signed:
       • Documentation or meeting minutes of the change are sufficient to update the account.
     • If the Account is Non-Profit:
       • Only documentation or meeting minutes of the change are required.
     • If the Tax ID has Changed:
       • A new application is required.
4. Handling Documentation and Application Submissions
   • For New Applications:
     • Notify underwriting@forte.net by email, providing the Merchant ID, contact name, and email address.
     • Inform the merchant that an underwriter will reach out to guide them through the process.
   • For Documentation-Only Requirements:
     • Request the merchant send the required documentation or meeting minutes to underwriting@forte.net or by fax to 469-675-8740.
5. Accessing Personal Guaranty Details
   • Personal Guaranty: Located on page 2 of the merchant's application, accessible in Filebound. Ensure this is reviewed as part of the verification process.

Resources and Additional Information

• TIN Mismatch/Legal Name Combination:
  • Additional information for Support Services is available in the TIN Mismatch / Legal Name Combination Additional Information resource.