I am about to open my own business. I have already applied for both my fictitious business license and my business license and waiting for them to arrive. Do I need to apply for an EIN? If so can I do it now or do I need to wait until I physically have the licenses? I already have an entity that would like to contract with me, starting in January and the need a W-9. I do not know if jumy Social Security number will suffice or if I need a EIN since the contract will be with my business not me as an individual
When you get your business license then apply for your ein. Once you get your ein, setup a business banking account using the name on your business license. Your business income will be run through the ein.