Having two EIN numbers can cause confusion and make it difficult for the IRS to track your business. Instead of using two EINs, contact the IRS. They will likely tell you to use only one EIN for your business dealings and disregard the other number.
Separate Entities and EIN Requirements
- The IRS requires businesses to have an EIN for tax purposes.
- Separate entities need different EINs.
- Businesses need a new EIN when ownership or structure changes.
- One EIN cannot be used for multiple entity types or unrelated businesses.
Even though an LLC can have multiple EINs, as long as each EIN represents a separate entity, an LLC cannot enter new contracts once it is dissolved. Members can petition the court to dissolve the company.
EIN for Sole Proprietors
Most sole proprietors do not need an EIN and can use their Social Security numbers instead. However, you may want to get an EIN for your sole proprietorship anyway.
You can have multiple businesses under one LLC.
Multiple EINs and Merging Them
If you have two EIN numbers, contact the IRS for guidance on which one to use. They will likely instruct you to use one and disregard the other to avoid confusion and difficulty for the IRS to track your business.