Why else would a sole prop or single member LLC get an EIN if they could not use it to shield their SS# ? The W-9 instructions clearly says you can use either on the form so you CAN put the EIN to safeguard your SS# (see my other post). When you get the EIN you had to link it to your SS# and on the Sch C that you file BOTH the SS# & EIN are listed on the form so any income reported in either number will track back to the same Sch C.
