🔹 1. EIN (Employer Identification Number) Think of it as a Social Security number, but for your business. The IRS uses it to identify your business for tax purposes. ✅ Why you need it: Amazon usually asks for this if you're registering as a business (not just using your personal SSN). You'll need it to open a business bank account, file taxes, and possibly get wholesale deals down the road. 💡 Pro tip: Even if you’re a sole proprietor, it’s smart to get an EIN — it keeps your personal info private and looks more professional. 🔹 2. Business License This is your official permission slip to sell stuff legally, and it's usually issued by your city, county, or state. ✅ Why you might need it: Some states require all businesses to have a general business license, even online sellers. Some counties/cities require it just to operate legally in their area. Amazon sometimes asks for it when verifying your seller identity or if you're selling in certain categories. 📝 Since you're doing a DBA... You’re basically operating under a business name that’s not your legal name. That often means you’ll also need to: Register your DBA with the state or county (depends on your state) Use that name consistently on your Amazon account, business license, and EIN app. 👉 What now? To make life easier, you can grab both your Business License and EIN in one go at this handy spot: 👉 https://www.businessnameusa.com/ They’ll walk you through the forms, and you won’t have to deal with the confusing government websites. Win-win!
First select your business entity. Entities: Sole Proprietor, LLC, Corporation or Partnership.
All Businesses , Regardless of Type, Need a Business License. All Businesses Using a Trade Name, Need a DBA Retailers/Wholesalers, Need a Seller's Permit. Employers Need a Federal Tax Id Number EIN State Tax Number EIN. Corporations, & LLCs Need a Federal Tax Id Number. Partnerships Need a Federal Tax Id Number and a DBA. Sole Proprietors Can Use a Federal Tax Id Number as a Business Tax ID. Instead of filing a DBA, You Can Incorporate or form an LLC
All Businesses , Regardless of Type, Need a Business License.
All Businesses Using a Trade Name, Need a DBA
Retailers/Wholesalers, Need a Seller's Permit.
Employers Need a Federal Tax Id Number EIN State Tax Number EIN.
Corporations, & LLCs Need a Federal Tax Id Number.
Partnerships Need a Federal Tax Id Number and a DBA.
Sole Proprietors Can Use a Federal Tax Id Number as a Business Tax ID.
Instead of filing a DBA, You Can Incorporate or form an LLC