@Critter-3 wrote:
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.
Yeah the IRS confirmed this. Your SMLLC EIN is linked to you. It's the only EIN that I have, and it didn't look like I could sign up for another sole proprietor EIN as the same business. Having different EIN numbers on my taxes and W9 forms also seems like it could cause issues. Everything online says that the LLC EIN is only for opening a bank account or payroll, but that number is tied to you just like a sole proprietor EIN. If there were any issues with it on a W9 form, you and the IRS have records confirming that it's yours.
