Wow, I didn’t realize that sole proprietors could get EINs:
An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is a nine-digit number that the IRS assigns to business entities. The IRS uses this number to identify taxpayers that are required to file various business tax returns. EINs are used by employers, sole proprietors, corporations, partnerships, non-profit organizations, trusts and estates, government agencies, certain individuals and other business entities.
via Mary Sulivan who links to this month’s edition of Working Solo:
Wary of constantly giving out your Social Security Number to various employers? A great way to protect yourself against identity theft is to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. It’s particularly useful for freelancers [italics added] who must constantly give out their Social Security numbers. The application is easy and you’ll get your EIN immediately. Apply here.
jim on October 4th, 2005 at 6:05 am
FYI, Your first link (sole proprietors could get EINs) doesn’t work. Good article though.
Dane on October 4th, 2005 at 6:12 am
Thanks Jim, I fixed it.