Illustration agency - copy ID

Gosia D

Hi, illustration agency wants to receive a copy of my ID. Is it a standard procedure? I don't think it's a good idea to sent it via email:/

davidhohn

@Gosia-D Not in the United States. I've never given that to my agent or clients. And even in other countries I'd ask "Why do you need this?"

My guess would be for payment/tax purposes. But I'd only offer exactly the information needed, when needed to process payment. In the US it's a W2 with a Tax Identification Number. As a freelancer get a TIN. Avoid sharing your SS#.

lpetiti

@Gosia-D What's the agency? My first question was "is this legit" as soon as I saw your question.

NicolaSchofield

@Gosia-D in the UK, employers have a legal responsibility to make sure anyone they employ has the right to work here. It's standard for companies to check your passport or other proof before you start work for them.

So I wouldn't have even questioned it, but it depends on what the situation is where you live.

davidhohn

@NicolaSchofield Interesting! So in UK totally normal -- in US red flag (okay maybe more a yellow flag) for scam.

StudioLooong

@Gosia-D I'm US-based and I have often had to supply my ID to employers, particularly those who supply a W2 instead of a 1099. They need to verify your identity. If you are uncomfortable emailing it, they should be able to set up a zoom call between you and an individual from HR and you can show them your ID over the video call once they've shown you their credentials.

NessIllustration

@NicolaSchofield I've been with a UK based agency at first, then a US based agency. Both required my ID!

davidhohn

@Gosia-D You are getting lots of different opinions, and they are all based on different personal experiences, and a fair amount of suppositions.

Let's get a little more clear here -- why is the agency asking for your ID? And what exactly do they mean by ID?
What stage of the relationship are you at with this agency? Are you just "chatting about representation" or are you "finalizing the bank transfer information for project payment"?

Your instinct is spot on -- be suspicious of ANYONE asking for your ID. Even if they say it's "required". Lots of times it's not. The person/company asking would simply prefer to have it, and you can just say "No."

Nyrryl Cadiz

@Gosia-D very sus