topic Using SMLLC EIN on W-9s in Business & farm

Using SMLLC EIN on W-9s

mmollly — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 09:49:36 GMT

Hi all. I have a single member LLC that is treated as a disregarded entity. In the past, I've always filled out w-9s by entering my name on Line 1, my LLC name on Line 2 and then using my SSN.

However I'd really like to stop giving out my SSN to so many people! I've seen it suggested on these forums that despite the instructions on the W-9, it's not actually a problem to use the SMLLC's EIN instead of the owners's SSN.

My question for people who have done this: what name are you putting on Line 1? Your name or the name of the LLC? My instinct is to do the name of the LLC, so it matches the EIN number provided.

Thanks for any and all advice!

Re: Using SMLLC EIN on W-9s

ee-ea — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 04:36:13 GMT

My instinct is to do the name of the LLC, so it matches the EIN number provided.

You are right!

Re: Using SMLLC EIN on W-9s

Carl — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 15:29:29 GMT

Just an FYI,

I never give out my SSN. I always use my EIN on any business documents such as W-9's and other things. With my SSN, if it's obtained and used by someone unscrupulously, they can ruin my entire life. With the EIN, if that gets used unscrupulously it only affects my business.

There are only two entities that have a legal need for my SSN. The IRS that issued it, and me as the requestor/owner of that EIN. Only the IRS knows what SSN that EIN is tied to, and the IRS is the only entity that needs to know.