=== Vendor Onboarding W9-1099 Chaser by Mypowerly ===
Contributors: mypowerly
Tags: W9, 1099, affiliate, tax compliance, vendor management, onboarding, contractor, vendor, W-9 form, 1099 electronic filing, vendor onboarding, contractor compliance
Requires at least: 5.8
Tested up to: 6.9
Requires PHP: 7.4
Stable tag: 1.0.14
License: GPLv2 or later
License URI: <a href="https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html">https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html</a>

Automate vendor onboarding - W-9 compliance & 1099 Electronic Filing (in minutes). Generate W-9 PDFs with eSignature. Connect to MyPowerly for advanced W-9/1099 workflows, automations, webhook integration and electronic filing.

== Description ==

**Note: This plugin is currently in beta stage. Features and functionality may evolve as we continue development.**

Stop chasing vendors for W-9s. Automate it inside WordPress.

If your WordPress site pays affiliates, contractors, or vendors — you are legally required to collect a signed W-9 before issuing a 1099 at year-end. Most store owners handle this over email, in spreadsheets, or not at all — until the IRS deadline hits.

**⚠️ One missing W-9 can trigger an IRS penalty of $310 per form. Intentional disregard carries penalties with no maximum cap.**

W-9 1099 Chaser is the only WordPress-native plugin that automates the full compliance workflow — from the first W-9 request to the final IRS e-file — without a single data export or CSV upload.

*This plugin is currently in beta. We're actively improving features and welcome your feedback as we enhance the platform.*




= The Problem This Solves =
Without this plugin, collecting a W-9 means emailing a blank IRS PDF, waiting for your contractor to print it, fill it by hand, sign it, scan it, and email it back — if they ever do.

Not every contractor has a printer. Not every gig worker has PDF software. And almost none of them want to figure out how to digitally sign a PDF on their phone at midnight.

W-9 1099 Chaser lets your affiliates and contractors self-serve: visit your site, fill out the web form, sign it digitally, and download a completed W-9 PDF — in minutes, on any device, with no software to install. Your onboarding starts immediately instead of stalling in someone's inbox.




= Free: Standalone W-9 Tool (No Account Needed) =
Use your WordPress site as an instant W-9 station. No account required to get started.

**Three Access Modes — Deploy the W-9 Form Your Way**

* **Public Mode** — The W-9 webform is freely available to any visitor. They can fill it out, sign it, and download their completed W-9 PDF at any time.
* **Protected Mode** — Share access selectively via a PIN or secret key. Ideal if you only work with approved contractors or affiliates and want to control who can submit a form.
* **Private Mode** — For internal use only. Only the store owner can access the form — perfect for generating your own W-9s without making anything public.

**Free Tool Features**

* **Electronic Signature** — Built-in e-signature included free; no third-party tool needed
* **Two PDF Output Options**
* **Official IRS W-9 PDF** — auto-filled from your web form entries
* **Print-to-PDF version** — a reliable backup if needed (consult your legal counsel on which format suits your use case)
* **Gutenberg Block** — Embed the form natively in the block editor; no shortcode required
* **Shortcode Support** — Works in any page builder or classic editor via `[w91099ch_w9_form]`
* **Responsive Design** — Mobile-friendly; gig workers can complete and sign their W-9 from any phone with no printer or PDF software needed
* **Frontend & Backend Display** — Responsive form accessible from both the admin panel and public-facing pages




= Connected: Full Vendor Compliance Automation (Free to Start) =
For WooCommerce stores, affiliate programs, and marketplaces that need to collect W-9s at scale — connect to MyPowerly and automate everything.

**Automatic Detection**

* Auto-detects new affiliates and vendors the moment they join your store
* W-9 request sent automatically — no manual work required

**Multi-Channel Vendor Chasing**

* Send W-9 requests via Email, SMS, WhatsApp, or VoIP
* Smart follow-up reminders chase non-responsive vendors automatically
* You never have to write another "please send your W-9" email

**Compliance Enforcement**

* Real-time status dashboard — see who has signed, who is pending, who is overdue
* Flag vendors who hit the $600 IRS reporting threshold without a W-9 on file
* Freeze payments to non-compliant vendors before you pay them in error

**Year-End Filing**

* TIN Matching validates every tax ID before filing — eliminates the most common cause of IRS B-Notices and penalties
* Optional 1099 e-filing at industry-low per-form pricing — no re-entry, no accountant required
* Google Sheets sync — export your full vendor and W-9 status to your own Google Drive

**Your Brand, Your Portal**

* White-label vendor portal with your logo, colors, and domain
* Invite your accountant or bookkeeper to manage filings under their own login




= Who This Is For =

* WooCommerce marketplace owners paying sellers or affiliates
* WordPress sites using AffiliateWP, Dokan, WC Vendors, SliceWP, or YITH
* Bookkeepers and CPAs managing compliance for multiple client sites
* Any WordPress site paying independent contractors over $600/year




Works With

**Direct Integration (auto-detection + sync):**

* AffiliateWP
* SliceWP
* YITH WooCommerce Affiliates
* WP Affiliate Manager
* WC Vendors
* Dokan
* WCFM Marketplace

**Heuristic Detection:**

* Affiliate for WooCommerce
* Ultimate Affiliate Pro
* Easy Affiliate
* Tapfiliate
* WP Affiliate Platform

**Also connects with:**

* Google Sheets
* Google Drive
* Outlook
* Gmail




 Free vs. Connected
 
 <pre>
 Feature                                     | Free (Standalone) | Connected (MyPowerly)
 ------------------------------------------- | ----------------- | --------------------
 W-9 PDF fill & download                      | Yes               | Yes
 Electronic signature                         | Yes               | Yes
 Three access modes (Public / Protected / Private) | Yes           | Yes
 Gutenberg block support                      | Yes               | Yes
 Auto-detect new vendors/affiliates           | No                | Yes
 Bulk W-9 request sending                     | No                | Yes
 Email / SMS / WhatsApp / VoIP delivery       | No                | Yes
 Real-time compliance dashboard               | No                | Yes
 Payment freeze for non-compliant vendors     | No                | Yes
 TIN Matching                                 | No                | Yes
 Audit trail & legally binding eSignature     | No                | Yes
 White-label vendor portal                    | No                | Yes
 1099 e-filing                                | No                | Add-on
 </pre>


 Connected features require a free MyPowerly account. Advanced features are usage-based — no monthly subscription fee.




Why Not Just Hire an Accountant?
An accountant charges ~$500 once a year and does nothing in between. They don't chase your vendors in August when they go quiet. They don't freeze a payment when a vendor crosses the $600 threshold without a W-9 on file. They don't send a WhatsApp reminder on a Tuesday morning.

W-9 1099 Chaser does all of that automatically, year-round, without you touching anything.

For accounting professionals who want to stay involved — they can be invited into the platform and manage multiple client sites under their own white-label portal. We don't replace accountants. We make them look good.




Security & Data Handling
Sensitive tax data (TIN / SSN / FEIN) is never transmitted through the WordPress plugin
Data goes directly to MyPowerly's secured backend with AES-256 encryption at rest and TLS in transit
No background data sync — all transmissions are administrator-initiated
No ads. No hidden tracking. Full subprocessor transparency.

  ⚠️  This plugin does not file tax forms or provide tax advice. All 1099 filing is handled by the connected MyPowerly service.

Privacy Policy: <a href="https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/privacy-policy/">https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/privacy-policy/</a>
Terms: <a href="https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/terms/">https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/terms/</a>




One-Line Positioning Statement
  "The only 1099 and W-9 compliance platform built inside WordPress — from vendor onboarding to IRS e-filing, with zero data exports."




**"Automate vendor onboarding - W-9 compliance & 1099 Electronic Filing (in minutes)"**

Connect with our platform for advanced vendor onboarding features including:
* Automated W-9 form collection
* Contractor compliance tracking
* 1099 electronic filing preparation
* Vendor management workflows

= Optional: Connect with MyPowerly.com for advanced workflows =

For advanced workflows, an administrator can connect the site to an external API provider:

* Official website: <a href="https://1099automation.com/">https://1099automation.com/</a>
* Primary service used by this plugin: <a href="https://www.mypowerly.com/">https://www.mypowerly.com/</a>
* Partner platform: <a href="https://1099automation.com/become-a-partner">https://1099automation.com/become-a-partner</a>
* Support email: 1099automation@gmail.com

MyPowerly.com provides the backend API, automations and workflow services used by the connected features in this plugin.

When optionally connected for advanced features, WordPress is used only as an interface/bridge for user-initiated actions such as connection, manual sync operations, and widget generation.

= What this plugin does =

* Includes a W-9 PDF fill/download tool (client-side) for convenience and easy sharing.
* For advance automation and features:
  * Connects your WordPress site to an external MyPowerly account using the new External Connect API.
  * Automatically configures secure webhook endpoints for real-time data synchronization.
  * Lets administrators run manual, user-initiated sync actions (for example: site profile, team members, and payees / affiliates / vendors / independent contractors records).
  * Provides comprehensive webhook event tracking for all sync operations.
  * Optionally helps generate and embed a W9 data collection widget provided by the external service.
  * Includes built-in webhook testing and verification tools for easy troubleshooting.

= What this stand alone plugin does not do =

* It does not file tax forms.
* It does not submit 1099s.
* It does not file 1099 forms.
* It does not provide tax advice.

= Sensitive data handling (TIN/SSN/FEIN) =

W9 – 1099 Chaser works in stand alone mode. Therefore it does NOT transmit taxpayer identification numbers (TIN), including SSN/FEIN, to MyPowerly or to any connected MyPowerly platform. The plugin explicitly excludes common TIN-related fields from API transmissions.

== External Service Disclosure ==

This plugin connects to external services for advanced automations and features only. For such advanced needs, this plugin will not function fully without an account with at least the primary MyPowerly service listed below.

The plugin provides limited standalone functionality (such as W-9 PDF generation) without connecting to the external MyPowerly service.

Encryption is used to protect API tokens and administrator-initiated metadata during secure communication with the external MyPowerly service. Taxpayer identification numbers (TIN/SSN/FEIN) are not transmitted by this plugin and therefore are not encrypted.

For more information:

* Terms & Conditions: <a href="https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/terms/">https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/terms/</a>
* Privacy Policy: <a href="https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/privacy-policy/">https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/privacy-policy/</a>

= MyPowerly =

* Website: <a href="https://mypowerly.com">https://mypowerly.com</a>
* API Domain: <a href="https://mypowerly.com">https://mypowerly.com</a>
* Connects your WordPress site to your MyPowerly account
* Enables user-initiated sync for automations, workflows, W-9 management, affiliate/vendor tracking, and widget generation
* Data is transmitted only after an administrator performs an explicit action (e.g., Connect, Sync, Generate Widget Code)
* Data that may be transmitted (based on selected action):
  * Site information (site URL, site name, admin email) during connection
  * Team/user details (email, role) when using team sync
  * Affiliate/vendor/contractor records from supported plugins or WordPress users (name, email, status, IDs, payout/earnings summary signals)
  * Widget configuration or embed code
  * W-9 form fields entered by an administrator (SSN/FEIN/TIN are not transmitted)
* Stored in WordPress:
  * Connection tokens/credentials
  * Limited connector settings (status, timestamps, widget settings)
  * Completed W-9 PDFs are not stored in WordPress
* Stored by MyPowerly:
  * Synced data is stored securely in your MyPowerly account
  * Privacy Policy: <a href="https://www.mypowerly.com/privacy-policy">https://www.mypowerly.com/privacy-policy</a>

= MyPowerly Features =

• Create and send W-9 requests individually or in bulk via CSV
• Sync contacts from Google, Outlook, Yahoo, Hotmail, Google Sheets
• Send affiliate/vendor data from your store
• Auto-detect new affiliates and trigger W-9 requests
• Direct integration: AffiliateWP, SliceWP, YITH WooCommerce Affiliates, WP Affiliate Manager, WC Vendors, Dokan, WCFM Marketplace
• Heuristic detection: Affiliate for WooCommerce, Ultimate Affiliate Pro, Tapfiliate, Easy Affiliate, WP Affiliate Platform, itthinx Affiliates
• Pre-filled W-9 forms using imported data
• Custom logo, brand colors, and domain
• Mobile-friendly, W-9 compliant forms
• White-label portal for vendors and affiliates
• Real-time request status tracking
• Secure W-9 PDF generation and encrypted storage
• Organized, searchable document library
• Optional W-9 data collection widget
• Optional live chat widget powered by Clicflo.com
• Optional embedded forms (Contact, Newsletter, Pay Me, Client Intake, Power of Attorney, Contracts, Engagement Letters)
• Administrator-enabled and configurable
• Widget content loads from MyPowerly.com or Clicflo.com

🔹 MyPowerly Paid Features (Usage-Based – No Monthly Fee)
• Automated W-9 requests via eCommerce and affiliate integrations
• Multi-channel delivery: Email, SMS, WhatsApp, VoIP
• Smart reminders and notifications
• Secure eSignature and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
• Legally binding, timestamped audit trails
• Compliance dashboard with signed/pending status tracking
• W-9-ready PDFs on demand
• TIN Matching to reduce errors and avoid penalties
• Optional 1099 E-Filing add-on with industry-low pricing
• File electronically with no data re-entry
• Discount codes available for special pricing

== Privacy ==

Privacy & Consent Summary (What / When / Where / Why)

What data is sent:
• Site/profile details (site URL, site name, admin email), team/user details (user email and role), payees/affiliates/vendors/independent contractors metadata (name/email/status/IDs and summary signals), widget configuration/embed code.
• The plugin does NOT transmit taxpayer identification numbers (TIN/SSN/FEIN).

When data is sent:
• Only after explicit user action (administrator clicks Connect, runs Sync actions, or generates widget code). No automatic background transmission.

Where data is sent:
• MyPowerly service (primary): <a href="https://mypowerly.com">https://mypowerly.com</a>
• Optional widget embeds: depends on embed code you generate

Note: Widget embed code may load third-party scripts/iframes from:
• <a href="https://mypowerly.com">https://mypowerly.com</a>
• <a href="https://1099automation.com">https://1099automation.com</a>

Why data is sent:
• To connect your WordPress site to your MyPowerly account and perform user-initiated sync and widget features.

Consent rules:
• Explicit user action required (administrator clicks Connect/Sync/Generate Widget Code)
• No pre-checked boxes: consent checkboxes not pre-selected
• No auto-sync: plugin does not automatically sync data in background
• No silent tracking: no third-party analytics/tracking scripts for visitor behavior

= No sensitive tax data stored in WordPress =

• Plugin not intended to store completed W-9 form values, signatures, or completed W-9 PDFs in WordPress database.
• W-9 form data processed in browaser to generate PDF. Data discarded when page closed/refreshed if flow not completed.
• Plugin may cache blank W-9 PDF template (file bytes only) in WordPress transient. Cached template does not include user-entered form values.

= Data transmission =

• Data transmitted to external MyPowerly service(s) only after explicit user action (Connect, Sync, Generate Widget Code).

== External Services ==

This plugin connects to the following external services to provide specific features.

= 1) MyPowerly Service =

* What it is used for: API integration for payees / affiliates / vendors / independent contractors data syncing, plugin management features, and support-related functionality in the WordPress admin.
* What data is sent: depending on the feature you use, the plugin may send connection / credential data during setup, payees / affiliates / vendors / independent contractors data, plugin and site information, and W-9 form data entered in the WordPress admin.
* When data is sent: during connection setup and only when an administrator performs an explicit action such as connecting the site, running synchronization processes, or using admin features that communicate with MyPowerly.
* Terms of Service: <a href="https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/terms/">https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/terms/</a>
* Privacy Policy: <a href="https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/privacy-policy/">https://1099automation.com/w9-1099-chaser/privacy-policy/</a>

== Third-Party Services ==

This plugin makes external requests to the following services:

* MyPowerly (required for connection and sync): <a href="https://mypowerly.com">https://mypowerly.com</a>
* Widget embeds (optional): depends on the widget embed code you choose to generate and embed.

== Data Handling Transparency ==

* No ads.
* No hidden data collection.
* Connect/sync actions are initiated by an administrator.

== Widget Disclosure ==

The plugin includes a widget feature that can output embed code (for example, iframe/script code) obtained from the connected external service.

* The widget is optional and must be enabled/configured by an administrator.
* The widget may display on the front-end depending on your settings (auto display, selected pages, or shortcode placement).
* The current widget feature is for embedding external widget code. It does not provide W-9 form entry inside WordPress by itself.
* Future updates may expand widget functionality, including allowing visitors to enter W-9 information through the widget and transmitting that information to external services. Any such behavior will be disclosed in the plugin documentation at the time it is introduced.

== Source Code / Build Instructions ==

This plugin includes third-party, minified JavaScript files to provide functionality in the WordPress admin.

= Signature Pad (signature library) =

The plugin bundles the Signature Pad library for capturing eSignatures.

 * Library name: Signature Pad
 * Version used: 5.1.3
 * License: MIT
 * Upstream source code repository: <a href="https://github.com/szimek/signature_pad">https://github.com/szimek/signature_pad</a>
 * Files included in this plugin:
  * assets/js/vendor/signature_pad.umd.js
 
 The plugin currently enqueues the following file:
 
 * assets/js/vendor/signature_pad.umd.js

To rebuild the bundled minified file from upstream source:

1. Clone the upstream repository:
   git clone <a href="https://github.com/szimek/signature_pad.git">https://github.com/szimek/signature_pad.git</a>

2. Check out the version used by this plugin:
   git checkout v5.1.3

3. Install dependencies and build (upstream uses Yarn):
   yarn install
   yarn build

4. Copy the built UMD file into this plugin:
   Copy dist/signature_pad.umd.js to assets/js/vendor/signature_pad.umd.js

= PDF-Lib (PDF generation library) =

The plugin bundles the PDF-Lib library for client-side PDF generation.

 * Library name: PDF-Lib
 * Version used: 1.17.1
 * Upstream source code repository: <a href="https://github.com/Hopding/pdf-lib">https://github.com/Hopding/pdf-lib</a>
 * Files included in this plugin:
  * assets/js/vendor/pdf-lib.js

Note: The bundled pdf-lib distribution includes third-party portions under Apache License 2.0.

The plugin currently enqueues the following file:

 * assets/js/vendor/pdf-lib.js

To obtain the exact upstream distribution for this version:

1. Visit the upstream releases page and download the 1.17.1 build:
   <a href="https://github.com/Hopding/pdf-lib/releases">https://github.com/Hopding/pdf-lib/releases</a>

= Tailwind CSS (CSS framework) =

The plugin bundles Tailwind CSS for styling plugin admin and front-end UI.

 * Library name: Tailwind CSS
 * Version used: 2.2.19
 * License: MIT
 * Upstream website: <a href="https://tailwindcss.com">https://tailwindcss.com</a>
 * Files included in this plugin:
  * assets/css/vendor/tailwind-2.2.19.min.css

Note: The bundled Tailwind build includes Modern Normalize (v1.1.0) which is MIT licensed.

To obtain the upstream distribution for this version:

1. Install Tailwind CSS 2.2.19 from npm:
   <a href="https://www.npmjs.com/package/tailwindcss/v/2.2.19">https://www.npmjs.com/package/tailwindcss/v/2.2.19</a>

= Font Awesome Free (icon library) =

The plugin bundles Font Awesome Free for icon display.

 * Library name: Font Awesome Free
 * Version used: 6.4.0
 * License: <a href="https://fontawesome.com/license/free">https://fontawesome.com/license/free</a> (Icons: CC BY 4.0, Fonts: SIL OFL 1.1, Code: MIT)
 * Upstream website: <a href="https://fontawesome.com">https://fontawesome.com</a>
 * Files included in this plugin:
  * assets/vendor/fontawesome/css/all.min.css
  * assets/vendor/fontawesome/webfonts/fa-brands-400.woff2
  * assets/vendor/fontawesome/webfonts/fa-regular-400.woff2
  * assets/vendor/fontawesome/webfonts/fa-solid-900.woff2

= Inter font (local font file) =

The plugin bundles the Inter font locally (to avoid loading fonts from third-party CDNs).

 * Font name: Inter
 * License: SIL Open Font License 1.1
 * Upstream source: <a href="https://github.com/rsms/inter">https://github.com/rsms/inter</a>
 * Files included in this plugin:
  * assets/css/vendor/inter.css
  * assets/fonts/inter/Inter-Variable.woff2

= Local W-9 PDF Template =

The plugin includes a local copy of a blank W-9 PDF template used by the optional W-9 PDF fill/download tool.

 * File included in this plugin:
  * assets/pdf/fw9_IREG_esign.pdf

The plugin uses this local template directly without requiring external downloads.

== License ==

This plugin is licensed under the GPLv2 (or later).

 * License: GPLv2 or later
 * License URI: <a href="https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html">https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html</a>

Third-party libraries, fonts, and assets bundled with this plugin may have their own licenses. Where applicable, license texts are included in the plugin package and/or referenced in this readme.

== Installation ==

1. Upload the plugin folder to `/wp-content/plugins/` or install it via the WordPress Plugins screen.
2. Activate the plugin through the "Plugins" menu in WordPress.
3. In the WordPress admin menu, open **W9 - 1099 Chaser**.
4. (Optional) Connect the plugin to your MyPowery / eSign account by following the on-screen steps.
   * **NEW**: Connection now automatically configures secure webhooks for real-time sync
   * **NEW**: Uses the improved External Connect API for enhanced security
5. Use the dashboard sync actions as needed (administrator-initiated).
6. (Optional) Configure webhook settings in Settings → Webhook Settings for advanced customization.
7. (Optional) Configure the widget from the Widget submenu.
8. To use the standalone W-9 PDF tool on the front-end, add one of these shortcodes to a page:


   * `[w91099ch_w9_form]`

9. To embed the MyPowerly widget on the front-end (when Widget Display Mode is set to **Shortcode only**), add this shortcode to a page:

   * `[w91099ch_widget]`

== Google Drive Integration Setup ==

The plugin now supports Google Drive/Google Sheets integration for enhanced data management:

= Prerequisites =
1. **Google Account**: You need a Google account with Google Drive access
2. **Google Sheets**: Create a Google Sheet in your Google Drive account before connecting
3. **MyPowerly Account**: Must be connected to MyPowerly platform first

= Step-by-Step Google Drive Connection =

**Step 1: Prepare Your Google Sheet**
1. Go to <a href="https://drive.google.com">https://drive.google.com</a> and sign in to your Google account
2. Click "New" → "Google Sheets" → "Blank spreadsheet"
3. Name your sheet (e.g., "W9-1099 Data", "Affiliate Records", "Contractor Info")
4. Set up column headers as needed (Name, Email, Status, etc.)
5. Save the sheet - note the sheet name for later

**Step 2: Connect Google Drive Account**
1. In WordPress admin, go to **W9 - 1099 Chaser** → **Settings**
2. Look for "Google Drive Integration" or "External Integrations" section
3. Click "Connect Google Drive Account"
4. You'll be redirected to Google's authorization page
5. **Important**: Sign in with the same Google account where you created the sheet
6. Grant the requested permissions:
   * View and manage your Google Drive files
   * View and manage your Google Sheets
7. Click "Allow" to authorize the connection

**Step 3: Select Your Google Sheet**
1. After successful authorization, you'll return to the plugin settings
2. In the "Google Sheets Configuration" section:
   * **Sheet Selection**: Choose your previously created sheet from the dropdown
   * **Sheet Name**: Verify the correct sheet name is selected
   * **Data Mapping**: Configure which WordPress data syncs to which sheet columns
3. Click "Save Configuration"

**Step 4: Test the Integration**
1. Go to the main plugin dashboard
2. Click "Sync to Google Sheets" or similar sync button
3. Check your Google Sheet to verify data appears correctly
4. Webhook events will now automatically update your Google Sheet in real-time

= Important Notes =

* **Sheet Must Exist**: The Google Sheet must be created in your Google Drive BEFORE connecting
* **Same Account**: Use the same Google account for both creating sheets and authorizing the plugin
* **Permissions**: The plugin needs both Google Drive and Google Sheets permissions to function
* **Real-time Sync**: Once connected, webhook events automatically update your Google Sheet
* **Data Privacy**: Only data you explicitly sync is sent to Google Sheets
* **Multiple Sheets**: You can connect multiple sheets for different data types (affiliates, contractors, etc.)

= Troubleshooting Google Drive Connection =

**"No sheets found" error:**
- Ensure you're signed in to the correct Google account
- Verify the sheet exists in your Google Drive
- Check that the sheet isn't in a shared folder with restricted access

**Authorization failed:**
- Clear browser cookies for Google.com
- Try connecting in an incognito/private browser window
- Ensure popup blockers aren't preventing the authorization window

**Data not syncing:**
- Check webhook configuration in Settings → Webhook Settings
- Verify Google Sheets permissions are still active
- Test the connection using the built-in sync buttons

== Webhook Testing ==

The plugin includes comprehensive webhook testing tools:

1. **Easy Testing**: Visit your-site.com/wp-content/plugins/w9-1099-chaser/webhook-tester.php
2. **Advanced Verification**: Use webhook-verification.php for detailed diagnostics
3. **Configuration Check**: Settings → Webhook Settings shows current webhook status
4. Test with webhook.site: Use <a href="https://webhook.site">https://webhook.site</a> for real-time webhook monitoring

== Frequently Asked Questions ==

= Does this plugin store tax data in WordPress? =
The plugin is not intended to store completed W-9 values, signatures, or completed W-9 PDFs in the WordPress database.

= Is a MyPowerly account required? =
Yes. The connector features require an external MyPowerly account (MyPowery / eSign).

= Does the plugin work without internet access? =
No. Connection and sync features require access to the external service.

= Does this plugin generate or file 1099 forms by itself? =
No. It is a connector. 1099 workflows occur in the connected MyPowerly service.

== Screenshots ==

1. Dashboard showing connection status and sync options.
2. Affiliates/payees list and sync controls.
3. Settings screen.
4. Widget settings screen.

== Source Code ==

This plugin includes the following third-party libraries with their source code available:

* **Signature Pad** - Used for electronic signature functionality
  * Source: https://github.com/szimek/signature_pad
  * License: MIT
  * Location: assets/js/vendor/signature_pad.umd.js
  * Minified version is included for performance. Source code is available at the GitHub link above.

* **PDF-lib** - Used for PDF generation and manipulation
  * Source: https://github.com/pdf-lib/pdf-lib
  * License: Apache-2.0
  * Location: assets/js/vendor/pdf-lib.js
  * Minified version is included for performance. Source code is available at the GitHub link above.

* **Tailwind CSS** - CSS framework for styling
  * Source: https://github.com/tailwindlabs/tailwindcss
  * License: MIT
  * Location: assets/css/vendor/tailwind-2.2.19.min.css
  * Minified version is included for performance. Source code is available at the GitHub link above.

* **Font Awesome** - Icon library
  * Source: https://github.com/FortAwesome/Font-Awesome
  * License: CC BY 4.0 / GPL / MIT
  * Location: assets/vendor/fontawesome/
  * Minified version is included for performance. Source code is available at the GitHub link above.

All third-party libraries are included in their minified/production form for optimal performance. Complete source code for all libraries is available through the provided links.

🔹 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does WP-W9–1099 Chaser do?
 A: The plugin connects your WordPress site to MyPowerly (our sister SaaS platform) to manage W-9 and 1099 workflows. WordPress acts only as an interface—tax compliance, document handling, and storage happen inside MyPowerly. The new version includes automatic webhook integration for real-time data synchronization.

Q2: Do I need a MyPowerly account to use this plugin?
 A: No, a free MyPowerly account is required to access connected features, such as syncing records, automating W-9 requests, and embedding widgets. Standalone W-9 PDF generation in WordPress does not require a SaaS account.

Q3: Can I generate W-9 forms directly from WordPress?
 A: Yes! You can fill out and download W-9 forms as PDFs directly from WordPress without connecting to MyPowerly. For advanced workflows, you can connect to MyPowerly.

Q4: Does the plugin file W-9 or 1099 forms?
 A: No. The plugin does not file tax forms or provide tax advice. Filing W-9 and 1099 forms is available via our optional 1099 E-Filing Software, offered at low pricing with no monthly subscription.

Q5: How is sensitive tax data handled?
 A: The plugin does not transmit TINs, SSNs, EINs, or other sensitive taxpayer info to WordPress or MyPowerly. All optional PDF W-9 data is processed locally in the user's browser. Data transfer occurs only when explicitly initiated by an administrator. Webhook data is automatically scrubbed of sensitive information.

Q6: What are webhooks and how do they work?
 A: Webhooks are automatic notifications sent to MyPowerly when certain events occur (like syncing data). The plugin now automatically configures secure webhooks during connection, enabling real-time synchronization without manual intervention. All webhook data is authenticated using HMAC-SHA256 signatures.

Q7: What is the widget feature?
 A: Administrators can optionally generate and embed widgets from MyPowerly. Widgets can be added via shortcodes or selected pages, and future enhancements will be disclosed before activation.

Q8: Which external services does the plugin use?
 A: 
 - **MyPowerly**: Handles W-9 / 1099 workflows and stores all data securely. Uses the External Connect API for enhanced security and automatic webhook configuration.
 - **Google Drive/Sheets** (Optional): When enabled, syncs data to your Google Sheets for enhanced data management and reporting. Requires explicit user authorization and sheet setup.

Q9: How can I test if webhooks are working?
 A: The plugin includes built-in testing tools. Visit your-site.com/wp-content/plugins/w9-1099-chaser/webhook-tester.php for easy testing, or use the webhook verification script for detailed diagnostics.

Q10: Who should use this plugin?
 A: Businesses, agencies, eCommerce platforms, or website owners who need secure W-9 workflows without storing sensitive tax data in WordPress. Perfect for vendors, contractors, affiliates, and compliance workflows.

Q11: Is there any cost for using the plugin?
 A: The WordPress plugin is free. Advanced SaaS-connected features and optional 1099 E-Filing Software are paid upgrades, but there is no monthly subscription required.

Q12: How does Google Drive integration work?
 A: The plugin can optionally connect to your Google Drive account to sync data with Google Sheets. You must first create a Google Sheet in your Drive, then authorize the plugin to access it. The plugin will then sync your WordPress data (affiliates, contractors, etc.) to your specified Google Sheet in real-time via webhooks.

Q13: Do I need to create Google Sheets before connecting?
 A: Yes! You must create the Google Sheet in your Google Drive account BEFORE connecting the plugin. The plugin cannot create sheets for you - it can only write data to existing sheets that you've created and configured.

Q14: What Google permissions does the plugin need?
 A: The plugin requires "View and manage your Google Drive files" and "View and manage your Google Sheets" permissions. This allows it to list your existing sheets and write data to the sheet you select. The plugin only accesses sheets you explicitly authorize.

== Screenshots ==

1. Dashboard view
2. Create W9 form
3. Settings page
4. Sync screen
5. Admin panel
6. Consent screen
7. Plugin integration
8. Final result

== Changelog ==

= 1.0.14 =
* New release with updated plugin code and CI/CD workflow improvements.

= 1.0.13 =
* Fix: Exclude build-wp folder from SVN deployment to prevent commit conflicts.

= 1.0.12 =
* Fix: Corrected SVN deployment to ensure latest code is reflected on WordPress.org.
* Fix: Cleaned up changelog ordering for WordPress.org compatibility.

= 1.0.11 =
* Updated plugin compatibility and stability improvements.
* Added missing changelog entries for WordPress.org visibility.

= 1.0.10 =
* Version bump to 1.0.10.

= 1.0.9 =
* Updated plugin compatibility and stability improvements.

= 1.0.8 =
* Updated plugin compatibility and stability improvements.

= 1.0.7 =
* Updated.

= 1.0.6 =
* Updated.

= 1.0.5 =
* **NEW**: Automatic webhook integration with MyPowerly platform
* **NEW**: External Connect API for enhanced security and reliability
* **NEW**: Comprehensive webhook event system for real-time data sync
* **NEW**: Built-in webhook testing and verification tools
* **NEW**: Automatic webhook configuration during connection setup
* **NEW**: HMAC-SHA256 webhook authentication for security
* **NEW**: Support for multiple webhook targets (manual + automatic)
* **NEW**: Enhanced wallet/payout plugin synchronization
* **NEW**: Improved error handling and debugging capabilities
* **NEW**: Comprehensive webhook documentation and testing guides
* **IMPROVED**: Connection flow now uses authorization codes instead of encrypted credentials
* **IMPROVED**: Enhanced data scrubbing to exclude sensitive tax information
* **IMPROVED**: Better fallback handling for webhook URL variations
* **IMPROVED**: More robust credential validation and token refresh
* **SECURITY**: Enhanced webhook signature verification
* **SECURITY**: Improved credential encryption and storage
* Updated readme with comprehensive feature descriptions and FAQ
* Removed IRS dependencies for standalone PDF generation
* Enhanced privacy disclosures and service descriptions

= 1.0.4 =
* Bugfix: ensure the W-9 admin sync button triggers the sync handler.

= 1.0.3 =
* Stability improvements.

= 1.0.2 =
* Documentation and packaging fixes.

= 1.0.1 =
* Documentation and disclosure updates.

= 1.0.0 =
* Initial release.

== Upgrade Notice ==

= 1.0.12 =
Fix: SVN deployment correction. Update recommended.

= 1.0.11 =
Updated plugin compatibility and stability improvements.

= 1.0.10 =
Version bump to 1.0.10.

= 1.0.9 =
Updated plugin compatibility and stability improvements.

= 1.0.8 =
Updated plugin compatibility and stability improvements.

= 1.0.7 =
Updated.

= 1.0.6 =
Updated.

= 1.0.5 =
Major update with automatic webhook integration, External Connect API, enhanced security, and comprehensive testing tools. Existing connections will be automatically upgraded to use the new webhook system.