Contact your bank. If you cannot use your Social Security number, you can try to obtain your EIN from the bank at which you opened your business checking account. Your bank may have required an EIN in order to open your business account. The IRS recommends contacting your bank before requesting its assistance.

Can sole proprietors apply for EIN?

A sole proprietor without employees and who doesn’t file any excise or pension plan tax returns doesn’t need an EIN (but can get one). In this instance, the sole proprietor uses his or her social security number (instead of an EIN) as the taxpayer identification number.

When does a sole proprietorship need an EIN?

Featured In. A federal employer identification number, or EIN, is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to businesses for tax filing and reporting purposes. The IRS uses the EIN to identify the taxpayer. EINs must be used by business entities –corporations, partnerships, and limited liability companies.

How to get an EIN for your business?

Hours of Operation 1 Determine Your Eligibility You may apply for an EIN online if your principal business is located in the United States or U.S. Territories. 2 Understand the Online Application You must complete this application in one session, as you will not be able to save and return at a later time. 3 Submit Your Application

Can a sole proprietor use a Social Security number?

For some business entities, such as sole proprietors and certain LLCs, you have the option to use a social security number or an EIN. However, if you have already filed and received your EIN, then this is the number that you want to use.

Do you need an EIN to work as an independent contractor?

If you perform personal services as an independent contractor, you must provide an EIN or Social Security number to your clients, or the client will be required to withhold 28% of your payments. Obtaining an EIN allows you to avoid having to provide your Social Security number to clients and other members of the public.