Form 110 - Designation of Exempt Person (and Instructions)

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The primary purpose of the W-8 form is to indicate to mutual fund companies and brokers that a foreign investor isn't subject to standard taxation practices where ... to indicate to mutual fund companies and brokers that a foreign investor isn't subject to standard taxation practices where investment income is not taxed.

That (quote from Investopedia) is "kosher pig poop seasoned with hen's teeth"--it just ain't so. The W8 is for anyone who is not citizen or national of the United States. Many banks may refuse to or are unable to provide bank accounts which are non-interest bearing which can result in reportable income for U.S. residents or U.S. citizens. A W8 or substitute document can be utilized by anyone who is not a citizen or national of the United States to assert their foreign status. The W8 can be utilized in any U.S. situation where there is or could be income. This is important considering that that one can be, say, a Texan and be foreign to the United States.

In a nutshell, a W 8 form is used by foreign businesses and non-resident aliens earning income from U.S. sources. Its purpose is mainly to let ... You probably don't have to worry about the W 8 form -- unless you're a non-resident alien. American citizens generally do not need to use W 8 forms, nor do resident aliens -- instead, they would use the corresponding W-9 form that certifies their tax identification number.[/URL]

The term "American citizen" means U.S. citizen.