Do I Need an EIN? SSN vs EIN for First-Time Freelancers
Tax year note: This topic is not tied to a single tax year. Check the current IRS EIN guidance on IRS.gov before you apply. Short answer: most first-time freelancers filing as sole proprietors do not need an EIN. You can file Schedule C with your Social Security Number (SSN). An EIN is useful in some situations, and it is free from the IRS — but it does not change your tax filing, and it does not create a company. ...