Change W9 to EIN

[Wade1970]

In 2024 I used my SSN with the company I contract with.  In 2025 I want to start using my EIN.  This is because the business is picking up that I will hire subcontractors that I will start paying.  Can I update my W9 with my sole proprietorships EIN or am I stuck using my using my SSN.  I am asking for legality of it because the company is complaining I can't do that because they did not contract ABC Company they contracted me.  I think they are wrong, but I wanted to check.

[MinhT1]

Yes.

As a sole proprietor, you can apply for an EIN and use it to fill your W-9. In fact, many sole proprietors do this to avoid giving out their SSN. As a sole proprietor, you are not a company, and any commercial name you use is only an assumed name (DBA - Doing business as).

On your tax return, you can enter your EIN on Schedule C.

Please read this IRS document for more information.