Posted by Roadie_MD on 12/27/13 2:39pm
Msg #497126

need help - EIN Number

I have had an EIN for years. I had a person from a title company question the W9 that I provided saying that the number I put on it was not recognized by the IRS and she wants me to provide my SS#. Well obviously I don't want to give out my SS# which is why I have an EIN. I have literally never had anyone question it. She said since the W9 is filled out with my name and marked 'sole proprietor' I have to give them my number or they can get fined. Is there any way I can verify the number?

Reply by Shoshana/AZ on 12/27/13 3:09pm
Msg #497128

Call the IRS on Monday and ask for a copy of it

They can fax or email it to you.

Reply by JanetK_CA on 12/27/13 3:43pm
Msg #497134

You also might want to ask them if what that tc person is telling you is correct. I've never heard of that and would be very surprised if it's so. I've never had anyone question it, either. You may have a well-meaning, but ignorant title co employee or you may have someone who's trying to pull a fast one.

You also may want to check the IRS website where you can get an EIN. There might be details regarding their appropriate use. Please let us know what you find out.

Reply by apsnltch on 12/27/13 4:29pm
Msg #497142

IF you go to IRS.gov, on the main home page there is a link to "apply for EIN online" When you go there, on the right is a menu that you can go to Employer ID Numbers. You can verify your EIN there and Somewhere in there you can request a duplicate what they call a SS-4 form or letter. This is the letter that the IRS sent you when they gave you your EIN. I would send a copy of that letter to the TC confirming that your EIN is in fact correct before I would send them my Soc Sec#

Reply by sueharke on 12/28/13 12:25am
Msg #497154

Writing as a CPA. I agree with this answer, unless you want to aid identity theft. This could be a scam to get your SSN.

Reply by sueharke on 12/28/13 12:33am
Msg #497155

Send another W-9 and make sure all the information is correct. You may have made a typing or unclear printing error on the first W-9. If they bug you for it this weekend or before you contact the IRS, tell em this is what your CPA said to do before giving your SSN to this company! They don't have to know I don't live in your town.

Reply by MW/VA on 12/28/13 9:32am
Msg #497163

I completely agree with Sue's advise. There's no reason

for you to provide them with your ss #. If you do as I do, and file your Schedule C with your individual tax return, the IRS/SS already has the link between those nos. IMO no one else needs that info.