Get your taxes done using TurboTax

If you began your entries stating that you received a 1099-Misc, that is the EIN the program is requesting. If you did not, you would use your social security number instead of an EIN.  See the screen shot below.

You are required to have an EIN in the circumstances below.

If you’re a sole proprietor, you must have an EIN to:

• hire employees
• have a Keogh or Solo 401(k) retirement plan,
• buy or inherit an existing business that you operate as a sole proprietorship
• incorporate or form a partnership or limited liability company, or
• file for bankruptcy.

Also, some banks require you to have an EIN before they’ll set up a bank account for your business.