1099-NEC - Can I send without my SSN and not get a EIN?

[josh_cov]

So it looks like I need to send a 1099-NEC.  Its a rental property, I dont have a "business"  I used my SSN and upon creating the form it adds my SSN to the form.  Is there anyway I can either block part of it to not include it.  I don't know the contractor very well who did the work and would prefer not to have my SSN part of it.  Is the only with to get an EIN?  Even though I dont have a business?  Appreciate the help.

[SharonD007]

You can’t truncate your SSN as a payer of a 1099-NEC.  You must use an EIN or SSN.  You can get an EIN as an individual, IRS Topic 755.  You can get an EIN immediately by applying using this IRS website: Employer ID Numbers. 

Review the TurboTax  article: What Is an IRS 1099 Form? For more information.

[josh_cov]

I appreciate the quick and detailed response!  This answers my question.  Thank you

[Carl · Accepted solution]

You are required to use either an SSN or EIN on a 1099-NEC. You will be fined by the IRS if you omit it. I completely understand not wanting to give out your SSN. However, there's no reason not to obtain and use an EIN on any tax documents you submit for expenses incurred on your rental. It's absolutely free and takes about 10 minutes on line at https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-n...

Read the information provided on that screen, then click the "APPLY ONLINE NOW" button.

[josh_cov]

Thank you for the reply!  

I do have a follow-up question. In order to create the 1099 I had to put down a business. I’m guessing I will need to create a business when I file. Few questions I have:

1. I just needed the EIN to create the 1099. What do I classify the business as?

2. This is only going to be used to create 1099 whenever needed for repairs/improvements. Am I going to need to report a profit anytime?

overall guess I just need some direction when it comes down to file

[Vanessa A]

You would classify the business activity as Rental Activity with NAICS code 531110.  You do not need to name the business or even really create a business that is anything other than your name.  

No. The EIN has nothing to do with profit or no profit. It is simply a number you get to use to pay employees.  You do not need one, but if you want one you can go online and apply for one here.  

[rajitripathi]

You should never give out your SSN to any contractor etc. Instead get an EIN. You can do it online on the IRS website.

Before I got an EIN, many years ago, I would mask off all numbers on my SSN, except the first and the last. With my legal name, address and that redacted SSN, the IRS still knows who I am.