While it differs between states, the typical salary for a small business owner is between $83,178 and $126,515. This range isn’t bad at all, and if you get your company set up right, you can make much more than that.
You may be so successful with your first business that you’re considering opening another. There’s paperwork to fill out of course, so you’re curious how much you have to wade through before you get to the fun parts.
So there may be this question in your mind: Can I use the same EIN for two businesses? Find out by reading on.
Can I Use the Same EIN for Two Businesses?
The answer isn’t so simple, unfortunately. The general rule of thumb is that you’ll need a separate and distinct EIN for every business entity. This means that in most cases, you won’t be able to use the same EIN for two businesses.
However, like with many things, there are exceptions. For example, if you’re a sole proprietor but own multiple businesses, these can all fall under the same EIN. When filing taxes, you’ll have to name every business on Schedule C (Form 1040).
The same goes for if you have a single-member limited liability company (LLC) that’s considered a disregarded entity. For all intents and purposes, you’re basically a sole proprietorship, which means you can use either an EIN or your own SSN for tax filing purposes.
Basically, if all of your businesses are under the same entity, you can use the same EIN across the board. If they aren’t, then you’ll have to apply for a separate EIN for each business entity. Also, if you have several businesses under one entity but they all are “doing business ases” (DBAs), you still only need one EIN.
How Many EINs Can I Have?
The answer is “yes” when it comes to the question, “Can you have multiple EINs?” But how many can you have exactly?
The answer is as many as you want. You can request multiple EINs if your circumstances require it. Do keep in mind that each business can only have one EIN though.
On that note, if you’re ready to grow from one business to two, then use our business registration service. We’ll handle the administrative work so you don’t have to work hard or wait long to open your doors.
When Do I Need a New EIN?
Let’s say you just have one business. If you’re only changing its name, you won’t have to get a new EIN.
However, if you’re changing the business structure (such as from a sole proprietorship to a partnership or corporation), then you’ll need to get a new EIN. The old EIN will be “retired” and the company will use the new EIN moving forward.
In the situation where you have two or more businesses, you’ll need a new EIN if the companies following the first are different entities.
What Happens if You Have Two EIN Numbers for the Same Business?
You should always have one EIN for each business. While you can share EINs between companies, each one should only have one assigned to it.
Not sure which one you should use? No problem. You can call the Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 (TTY/TDD users should use 1-800-829-4059 instead). You’ll need to have the following information on hand:
- The EINs
- The corresponding names and addresses for the EINs
- Address of your main business
With this, the IRS can better inform you about which EIN you should use.
Can Two LLCs Have the Same EIN?
As we’ve said above, you can have one EIN for the same business entity. While the two LLCs have the same business structures, they are two separate entities. This means that you’ll need to apply for separate EINs.
How Can I Apply for More EINs?
It’s not a hard procedure at all, especially if you’ve already applied for one before. Plus, EINs are free, so you won’t have to worry about spending extra money.
To apply for an EIN, you have to submit Form SS-4 to the IRS. You can do this either by snail mail, fax, or digitally.
You must fill out a separate Form SS-4 for each EIN you’re applying for. Also, be aware that you aren’t allowed to apply for more than one EIN per day, so each form has to have a different filing date.
Once you’ve submitted Form SS-4, you’ll get an EIN immediately if you’ve filed online. Fax will take around one week, and snail mail will take at least a month, so it’s best if you use their online application system.
Ensure You Have the Right EINs for Your Businesses
The answer to the question “Can I use the same EIN for two businesses?” is “It depends.” If they’re under the same business entity, then yes. Otherwise, you’ll have to request a second EIN for the other company.
If you’re ever unsure about EINs, don’t hesitate to either contact the IRS or speak to a tax professional. It’s better to have everything in order now rather than run into snags in the future, when it could be more complicated and costly.
Do you want to create more businesses now? Then sign up with Business Anywhere. We also offer registered agent services.
