Silly EIN or SS question

[DTS]

I am preparing 1099s for clients and several them for me. I am not too crazy about putting my SS on the form. I would like to obtain an EIN for my sole prop and use that.

Is this OK? First year I've had to deal with this.

Thanks,

Dennis

[outwest]

Pretty good reason...

for a SMLLC and using the EIN. Of course, in my state, all it takes is $100 and a one page form to get running. No other annual fees. Different answer in CA for instance.

[joanmcq]

Get a PTIN. Its the reason they have them. Easy from IRS website.

[DTS]

Ptin

I have a PTIN that I use on all returns, but not an EIN. Can I use the PTIN? I've never heard of this.

Dennis

[bertrans]

Yes, you can. The options run: preparer's SSN
EIN or
PTIN.

[joanmcq]

oops, I didn't see the '1099s for me' part. Not sure if you can use a PTIN for that...

[Gretel]

Dennis, 1099's require SS or EIN. Call the IRS number to find out if you can get EIN as sole proprietor and not having employees.

[DTS]

Joan...

you are correct, these 1099s are being issued to me.

The only example I can find shows a company with an EIN, but the 1099 is issued under the s/p ss#. I don't want to do this, if I can avoid it.

Dennis

[clr]

Online ein#

Go online with the IRS and get a EIN# within 10 minutes.

[taxmandan]

Don't bother calling the IRS, just log in to www.irs.gov and fill in the information for an EIN and you'll have it within 20 minutes. You can use one as a Sole prop. with no employees, I've been doing it for 15 years.