{"id":308500,"date":"2021-03-26T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-26T11:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/blog\/?p=308500"},"modified":"2025-04-16T21:43:19","modified_gmt":"2025-04-17T01:43:19","slug":"freelancers-need-an-ein","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/blog\/telecommuting-survival\/freelancers-need-an-ein\/","title":{"rendered":"Do Freelancers Need an EIN? Here\u2019s What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong><em>Updated April 2025<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A common question that freelancers have when setting up their accounting systems is whether to obtain an employer identification number or EIN. So do freelancers need an EIN? While those working solo are not required to get one, there are a variety of benefits to consider when making the decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-an-ein\"><strong>What is an EIN?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An Employer Identification Number is a nine digit number issued by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to business entities. Its purpose is to identify and track a business\u2019s tax responsibilities. Some of the businesses that use EINs include:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul style=\"padding-left: 1.1em; text-align: left; --ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px;; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 320 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M146 0c17.7 0 32 14.3 32 32V67.7c1.6 .2 3.1 .4 4.7 .7c.4 .1 .7 .1 1.1 .2l48 8.8c17.4 3.2 28.9 19.9 25.7 37.2s-19.9 28.9-37.2 25.7l-47.5-8.7c-31.3-4.6-58.9-1.5-78.3 6.2s-27.2 18.3-29 28.1c-2 10.7-.5 16.7 1.2 20.4c1.8 3.9 5.5 8.3 12.8 13.2c16.3 10.7 41.3 17.7 73.7 26.3l2.9 .8c28.6 7.6 63.6 16.8 89.6 33.8c14.2 9.3 27.6 21.9 35.9 39.5c8.5 17.9 10.3 37.9 6.4 59.2c-6.9 38-33.1 63.4-65.6 76.7c-13.7 5.6-28.6 9.2-44.4 11V480c0 17.7-14.3 32-32 32s-32-14.3-32-32V445.1c-.4-.1-.9-.1-1.3-.2l-.2 0 0 0c-24.4-3.8-64.5-14.3-91.5-26.3C4.9 411.4-2.4 392.5 4.8 376.3s26.1-23.4 42.2-16.2c20.9 9.3 55.3 18.5 75.2 21.6c31.9 4.7 58.2 2 76-5.3c16.9-6.9 24.6-16.9 26.8-28.9c1.9-10.6 .4-16.7-1.3-20.4c-1.9-4-5.6-8.4-13-13.3c-16.4-10.7-41.5-17.7-74-26.3l-2.8-.7 0 0C105.4 279.3 70.4 270 44.4 253c-14.2-9.3-27.5-22-35.8-39.6C.3 195.4-1.4 175.4 2.5 154.1C9.7 116 38.3 91.2 70.8 78.3c13.3-5.3 27.9-8.9 43.2-11V32c0-17.7 14.3-32 32-32z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); --ub-list-item-fa-li-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-spacing: 0px; \" class=\"wp-block-ub-styled-list ub_styled_list\" id=\"ub_styled_list-e46aab2e-0246-4e5c-90c3-3f3ce4e2d1d3\"><div class=\"ub-block-list__layout\" style=\"text-align: left; column-count: 1; --ub-list-mobile-column-count: 2; \">\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-4078ee2d-2412-4cdc-8694-082cff47934e\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#b34101\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Employers<\/strong><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-f9fb47fe-1be6-46e4-85cc-5fcb731c0993\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#b34101\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Sole proprietors<\/strong><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-4c26696b-be25-4306-9271-7376bcff80a0\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#b34101\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Corporations<\/strong><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-af4d40b6-258f-4df4-941a-297554cd3985\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#b34101\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Partnerships<\/strong><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-1475e730-3961-4b03-89bd-f16ca5255e23\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#b34101\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Nonprofit organizations<\/strong><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-cea9d853-1634-422b-8064-ad1cbcbd3063\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#b34101\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Trusts<\/strong><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-c2fc1f82-71cd-4761-a887-c856a67d6d0e\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#b34101\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Estates of decedents<\/strong><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n\n<li class=\"ub_styled_list_item\" style=\"--ub-list-item-icon-top: 3px; --ub-list-item-icon-size: 0.9em; --ub-list-item-background-image: url('data:image\/svg+xml;utf8,&lt;svg xmlns=&quot;http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&quot; viewBox=&quot;0 0 512 512&quot;&gt;&lt;path fill=&quot;%23b34101&quot; d=&quot;M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z&quot;&gt;&lt;\/path&gt;&lt;\/svg&gt;'); \" id=\"ub-styled-list-item-6e2a9a71-92c6-4c3b-b6c8-3ff0bcb688eb\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_list_item_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_icon\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<svg width=\"0.9em\" height=\"0.9em\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 512 512\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#b34101\" d=\"M470.6 105.4c12.5 12.5 12.5 32.8 0 45.3l-256 256c-12.5 12.5-32.8 12.5-45.3 0l-128-128c-12.5-12.5-12.5-32.8 0-45.3s32.8-12.5 45.3 0L192 338.7 425.4 105.4c12.5-12.5 32.8-12.5 45.3 0z\"><\/path>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ub_list_item_text\"><strong>Government agencies<\/strong><\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/li>\n<\/div><\/ul>\n\n\n<p>A key idea is that a business or self-employed person does not have to actually employ workers to apply for and hold an EIN.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-freelancers-need-an-ein-to-minimize-business-risk\"><strong>Freelancers Need an EIN to Minimize Business Risk<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When people talk about the risks of freelancing, they often discuss things like finding and maintaining clients, economic uncertainty, and obtaining health insurance. But freelancers also face the risk of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nase.org\/business-help\/self-made\/archive\/self-made\/2023\/11\/15\/identity-theft-prevention-for-freelancers-how-to-keep-your-financial-and-personal-information-secure\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">identity theft<\/a> causing a loss of reputation, time wasted to sort out the mess, and possible legal fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why does this mean freelancers need an EIN? Because federal tax law requires businesses and individuals who hire freelancers to file tax form 1099 on annual earnings over $600. To meet this requirement, employers request that freelancers submit and certify their taxpayer information via form W-9. As such, freelancers must provide their Social Security number and other identifying information to multiple clients. This increases the chances that their data could fall into the hands of an identity thief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Responsible businesses and clients treat W-9 forms carefully, keeping them secure and restricting access to specific employees. However, some employers aren\u2019t as careful. Even worse, perpetrators of various work-at-home scams may use information provided on a W-9 to steal a freelancer\u2019s identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"ub_divider_a901fc48-a762-498e-9605-d74c5a2e4f70\" data-divider-alignment=\"center\" class=\"ub_divider wp-block-ub-divider ub-divider ub-divider-orientation-horizontal\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 2px\">\n\t<div class=\"ub_divider_line \" \n\tstyle=\"border-top: 4px solid #ccc; margin-top: 2px; margin-bottom: 2px; \">\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-1024x1024.webp 1024w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-80x80.webp 80w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080.webp 1080w\" sizes=\"60vw\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-566526\" style=\"width:296px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-80x80.jpg 80w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2024\/03\/VirtualVocations_CareerCoaching_GetinontheGigEconomy-YouCanSucceedasaRemoteFreelancer_WatchtheRecording1080x1080.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"60vw\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/remote-career-center\/overview\/get+in+on+the+gig+economy%3a+you+can+succeed+as+a+remote+freelancer-155\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn strategies for thriving as an independent contractor in a telework environment<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n<div id=\"ub_divider_6f42c75b-a426-4896-865b-bb8a4d59afe2\" data-divider-alignment=\"center\" class=\"ub_divider wp-block-ub-divider ub-divider ub-divider-orientation-horizontal\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 2px\">\n\t<div class=\"ub_divider_line \" \n\tstyle=\"border-top: 4px solid #ccc; margin-top: 2px; margin-bottom: 2px; \">\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-use-of-ein-in-setting-up-business-profiles-with-payment-applications\"><strong>Use of EIN in Setting Up Business Profiles with Payment Applications<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Another reason freelancers need an EIN is for setting up a business profile in payment applications such as PayPal and Venmo. These applications provide an easy way to bill clients and collect payment. However, the IRS requires the companies operating these applications to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thestreet.com\/personal-finance\/taxes\/paypal-and-venmo-taxes-what-you-need-to-know-about-p2p-platforms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">report total payment volumes<\/a> received by business profile account holders whose payments meet or exceed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/newsroom\/irs-announces-2023-form-1099-k-reporting-threshold-delay-for-third-party-platform-payments-plans-for-a-5000-threshold-in-2024-to-phase-in-implementation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">established thresholds for the current year<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A few state exemptions exist, so be sure and check with your individual state. Freelance businesses crossing these thresholds are issued a 1099-K to ensure that income is reported and are also required to confirm their taxpayer status at that time. An EIN facilitates this process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-additional-reasons-freelancers-need-an-ein\"><strong>Additional Reasons Freelancers Need an EIN<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to minimizing the risk of identity theft and setting up business profiles in payment applications, there are other <a href=\"https:\/\/stripe.com\/ae\/resources\/more\/the-benefits-of-having-an-ein-for-your-business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">benefits to securing an EIN<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Easier to separate business and personal finances<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Facilitates filing business taxes and avoids penalties<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Required in many instances to open a business bank account<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Needed to establish business credit history and speed up loan applications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adds professional credibility with clients and vendors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allows the hiring of employees or subcontractors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enables non-U.S. citizens to establish a U.S. business<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-get-an-ein\"><strong>How to Get an EIN<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Obtaining an EIN is relatively straightforward. You can sign up if you are a sole proprietor, an LLC, or a subchapter S corporation, which are the most common types of business organizations for freelancers. The IRS provides EINs at no cost and offers several different application methods. All you need is a valid taxpayer identification number \u2014 usually a Social Security number. The IRS prefers online applications \u2014 which take about 15 minutes to complete \u2014 and assign you an EIN on the spot. However, you can also apply by fax or mail. International applicants with no place of business or legal residence in the U.S. can apply over the phone as well as by fax or mail. Complete instructions are available on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/employer-identification-number\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IRS website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some states require businesses to obtain a state identification number as well. Contact your state\u2019s tax authority to learn about your state\u2019s laws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div id=\"ub_divider_7c745c01-07cb-4030-a790-f75af1cbde0e\" data-divider-alignment=\"center\" class=\"ub_divider wp-block-ub-divider ub-divider ub-divider-orientation-horizontal\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 2px\">\n\t<div class=\"ub_divider_line \" \n\tstyle=\"border-top: 4px solid #ccc; margin-top: 2px; margin-bottom: 2px; \">\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:34px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829-1024x536.webp 1024w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829-300x157.webp 300w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829-768x402.webp 768w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"60vw\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"536\" src=\"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829-1024x536.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-574865\" style=\"width:458px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829-1024x536.png 1024w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829-300x157.png 300w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829-768x402.png 768w, https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2020\/05\/FinancialGoalsforFreelancersHowtoCreateandBuildWealth28120062829.png 1200w\" sizes=\"60vw\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/blog\/freelancing-tips\/financial-goals-freelancer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Creating and sticking to financial goals can help you thrive<\/a><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n<div id=\"ub_divider_02b2bb1b-ffc8-43f7-a005-6884d6793ec4\" data-divider-alignment=\"center\" class=\"ub_divider wp-block-ub-divider ub-divider ub-divider-orientation-horizontal\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 2px\">\n\t<div class=\"ub_divider_line \" \n\tstyle=\"border-top: 4px solid #ccc; margin-top: 2px; margin-bottom: 2px; \">\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-avoid-ein-scams\"><strong>Avoid EIN Scams<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While getting an EIN can offer significant protection against personal identity theft, remaining vigilant against scams and attempts at business identity theft is equally as important. Some identity thieves use EINs and other sensitive information to open business lines of credit and other financial devices. This means that you\u2019ll need to use the same discretion in providing your EIN to potential clients as you would your Social Security number. Therefore, do your due diligence and establish that a business is legitimate before turning over sensitive information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Never pay a third party to obtain an EIN for you. You can do this yourself by applying directly to the IRS for your number. Be suspicious of any electronic communications from the IRS requesting your EIN. The IRS doesn\u2019t communicate via email and encourages people to report these communications to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). If you are ever concerned about communications from someone claiming to be from the IRS, visit the IRS Report Phishing page for details on how to determine whether the individual contacting you actually works for the IRS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gain-credibility-and-financial-footing-with-an-ein\"><strong>Gain Credibility and Financial Footing With an EIN<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While it&#8217;s not required, an EIN may be a valuable asset to some freelancers. Setting up a strong financial foundation, minimizing risk exposure, and building credibility with your clients are just a few of the benefits. Start your business off on the right foot and take a few minutes to get your EIN today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p><em><strong>Do freelancers need an EIN? Or have you been working as a sole proprietorship? What works better for your needs as a freelancer?\u00a0<\/strong><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em>Connect with Virtual Vocations on <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/VirtualVocations\"><em>Facebook<\/em><\/a><em>, <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/VirtualVocation\"><em>X (formerly known as Twitter)<\/em><\/a><em>, <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/virtual-vocations\/\"><em>LinkedIn<\/em><\/a><em>, <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/virtualvocations\/\"><em>Instagram<\/em><\/a><em>, and <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCvl6mSBguVl5NsNtBrb4vIg\"><em>YouTube<\/em><\/a><em> to share your thoughts and tips. We\u2019d love to hear from you!<\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"background-color: #ffffff; border-width: 2px; border-color: #ECECEC; \" class=\"ub_call_to_action wp-block-ub-call-to-action-block\" id=\"ub_call_to_action_7efab492-1d10-4bb8-add2-0b7828e97b56\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_call_to_action_headline\">\n\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ub_call_to_action_headline_text\" style=\"font-size: 30px; text-align: center; \"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2013\/03\/VVlogo.webp\" sizes=\"60vw\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"139\" height=\"126\" src=\"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2013\/03\/VVlogo.jpg\" alt=\"\"><\/picture><br><br><strong>Join Virtual Vocations<\/strong><br><\/p>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_call_to_action_content\">\n\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ub_cta_content_text\" style=\"font-size: 15px; text-align: center; \">Joining\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Virtual Vocations<\/a>\u00a0grants you access to our hand-picked remote jobs database.\u00a0Learn\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/howitworks\" target=\"_blank\">how our service works<\/a>, browse job leads by\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/browse\" target=\"_blank\">location and career category<\/a>, or search hundreds of hand-screened remote jobs to find legitimate work-at-home job leads that match your skills and background.\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Register for free<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/contact\" target=\"_blank\">contact us<\/a>\u00a0for more information on our service guarantee.<br><br>Check out our menu of\u00a0Career Services\u00a0provided by our team of certified professionals, including resume and career coaching services for remote jobseekers. Resume assessments and writing, LinkedIn profile enhancement, and cover letter writing are available to maximize the success of your remote job applications.\u00a0<strong>Discounts on all services available to subscription members,\u00a0<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">become one now.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_call_to_action_button\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/register\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"ub_cta_button\" style=\"background-color: #b34101; width: 270px; \">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ub_cta_button_text\" style=\"color: #ffffff; font-size: 14px; \"><strong>CREATE YOUR FREE ACCOUNT NOW<\/strong><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n<div id=\"ub_divider_2f9718ff-0dd2-439f-9ebc-a7f286249451\" data-divider-alignment=\"center\" class=\"ub_divider wp-block-ub-divider ub-divider ub-divider-orientation-horizontal\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 2px\">\n\t<div class=\"ub_divider_line \" \n\tstyle=\"border-top: 2px solid #ccc; margin-top: 2px; margin-bottom: 2px; \">\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you&#8217;ve just started as a freelancer, chances are you&#8217;re working as a sole proprietorship. But do freelancers need an EIN? Find out the advantages of obtaining an EIN.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":207,"featured_media":588615,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ub_ctt_via":"","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[23251,3780],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-308500","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-freelancing-tips","category-telecommuting-survival"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/staticblog.virtualvocations.com\/2021\/03\/DoFreelancersNeedanEINHereE28099sWhatYouNeedtoKnowfeaturedimage.png","author_info":{"display_name":"Skye Rodgers","author_link":"https:\/\/www.virtualvocations.com\/blog\/author\/skye-rodgers\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v25.3.1 (Yoast SEO v25.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Do Freelancers Need an EIN? 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