Some companies must have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), while others can opt out. However, small business owners and independent contractors generally must have an EIN. Knowing who needs to apply and the advantages of having an EIN helps your company.
Even though you are not legally needed to obtain an EIN, it is still a valuable asset for any business. You can benefit from various advantages by obtaining an EIN, such as more straightforward tax preparation, the ability to hire staff, and the ability to build business credit.
Here, you’ll discover an EIN, when you’ll need one, how to get one, and its advantages. Let’s begin.
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What do we understand by EIN for Sole Proprietor?
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues firms with an EIN, or Employer Identification Number, a nine-digit number. It also goes by the name “federal taxpayer identification number,” and it aids in the government’s ability to track down enterprises for taxation-related reasons. It might be compared to the Social Security Number (SSN) regarding business.
Unless they have staff, sole owners do not require an EIN. In other words, you do not require an EIN if you are your company’s sole owner. You will need an EIN to start a new company, inherit an existing one, join a business partnership, or do many other things.
The IRS website makes it quick and easy to obtain an EIN, so even if a sole proprietor does not require one, it might be a good idea to do so. We will go over some of the potential advantages it might have below.
Who requires EINs?
EINs must be obtained for the following business structures:
- Firms
- Partnerships
- Limited liability companies
An EIN is only sometimes necessary for sole proprietorships. In contrast, an EIN is required if:
- Either you now employ people, or you intend to.
- A solitary 401(K) or Keogh retirement plan is what you want to give.
- Do you want to purchase a sole proprietorship, or are you inheriting one?
- Make a bankruptcy filing today.
EINs are additionally required by the IRS for trusts established by estate funds and administrators who look after an estate that runs a firm after the owner passes away.
Most persons who work as independent contractors, freelancers, small business owners who operate from their homes, and people with side jobs that take advantage of the gig economy are not required to obtain an EIN. However, there are several justifications for why they should.
How can one get an EIN?
The IRS website offers an online EIN application process that is quick and easy to complete. You must submit basic business information, including your company’s name and address, trade name, and Social Security number.
You should obtain your EIN immediately if you submit your application online between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. Form SS-4 can also be completed via fax or postal service.
But the issue with faxing or mailing applications is that they take much longer than online ones. For example, you’ll receive your EIN in three days if you send a fax. Additionally, it may take up to four weeks for your EIN to be processed if you write a letter.
Your single proprietorship must be based in the United States to receive an EIN, and you must also have your tax identification number, such as a social security number.
What are the benefits of having an EIN?
For your sole proprietorship, you might need to apply for an Employer Identification Number for a variety of reasons, including:
It enhances your reputation as a legitimate company.
Does a freelancer need an EIN? Every little amount helps when you’re starting out, and having an EIN can significantly impact you.
If you have an EIN, people will understand that you are a legitimate firm and not just a person working from home on the side. This may facilitate the acquisition of loans, draw in clients and business partners, and generally increase respect.
You can keep tabs on your commercial expenses thanks to it.
You can use your EIN to separate your personal and business expenses if you’re keeping track of both. That can help you save money during tax season and simplify filing taxes.
You’ll be able to benefit from tax deductions by keeping track of your business expenses, which will allow you to save even more money.
Reduces the chances of identity theft.
Your Social Security number is one of the most crucial pieces of information about you. You risk identity theft if you give it to every company you do business with. Your social security number can be stolen by identity thieves, who may then use it to file false tax returns. Your SSN can remain in your records if you have an EIN, giving your firm a distinctive identity.
This is advantageous for accounting and bookkeeping.
Being a business owner might make keeping track of your funds difficult, but having an EIN makes it much more manageable. Having an EIN helps you keep your bookkeeping organized and makes it simple to recognize business activities.
Employing people becomes more straightforward as a result.
Getting an EIN today will simplify the procedure if you intend to hire staff members in the future. Additionally, you’ll have a designated account for payroll taxes and won’t be required to disclose your Social Security number on new employee forms. Further, you can contribute to social security and Medicare and withhold employee taxes with an EIN.
You can avoid penalties by filing your taxes on time and for your business.
You are responsible for paying your personal and business taxes whether you work for yourself or as an independent contractor. It would be best to segregate your personal and business taxes by obtaining an EIN, simplifying the procedure. Additionally, you’ll be spared any fines associated with late or inaccurate filings.
Making a business bank account application easier
The best method to keep your personal and business funds apart is to open a business bank account to simplify tracking your company’s earnings and outgoings.
A business bank account may simplify obtaining loans and other forms of finance in the future.
While some banking institutions don’t require an EIN, others have stricter criteria. Other financial institutions let sole owners open a business bank account without one. Therefore, it could be a good idea to contact your bank first.
Application processing for business loans is sped up.
Getting an EIN today will help expedite the procedure if you plan to qualify for a company loan. You can demonstrate to the lender that you’re serious about your enterprise and have made the appropriate preparations by giving them your EIN.
It makes establishing business credit simpler.
Having an EIN might assist you in building business credit, which is one of its advantages. To obtain a loan or lease, you must have business credit, distinct from personal credit. You can begin establishing a credit history for your company on your business credit card by entering your EIN when applying for loans and credit.
It makes it possible for you to gain the confidence of both clients and suppliers.
An EIN might help you establish confidence when doing business with other corporations. With the assurance that a company is legal and has undergone IRS scrutiny, vendors and customers may feel more at ease conducting business with one with an EIN.
Getting an EIN also has other advantages. For instance, you can utilize your EIN to construct a partnership agreement if you have a partner in your company. You’ll also need an EIN if you decide to convert your company to an LLC or corporation subsequently.
