If you’re a real estate agent or broker, you may be asking:
“Can I get an EIN without having an LLC?”
The short answer is: Yes, you can apply for an EIN without forming an LLC — but whether you should depends on how you want to structure your real estate business.
This article explains your options as a realtor, the pros and cons, and when it makes sense to get an EIN before or after forming an LLC.
🧾 What Is an EIN?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a 9-digit number issued by the IRS. It identifies your business for tax purposes — like a Social Security Number, but for your business.
Realtors use an EIN to:
- File taxes (especially if you don’t want to use your SSN)
- Open a business bank account
- Work with brokerages or payment processors
- Hire assistants or employees
- Issue or receive 1099s
✅ An EIN is free and can be applied for online at irs.gov.
✅ Can You Apply for an EIN Without an LLC?
Yes. If you’re operating as a sole proprietor, you can get an EIN under your own name, without forming a legal entity like an LLC or corporation.
This is common for:
- New real estate agents just starting out
- Realtors working independently under a broker
- Individuals earning commissions but not ready to formalize a business
🧠 Should Realtors Get an EIN Without an LLC?
While you can, here’s what to consider:
| Reason | EIN Without LLC | EIN With LLC |
|---|---|---|
| Legal protection | ❌ | ✅ Personal protection |
| Brand building | ❌ | ✅ Business name & logo |
| Professional image | Moderate | High |
| Tax flexibility (S Corp, etc.) | ❌ | ✅ Possible |
| Privacy (avoid using SSN) | ✅ | ✅ |
🏢 Why Realtors Eventually Form an LLC
As you grow, forming an LLC becomes more beneficial.
Benefits of an LLC for Realtors:
- Limits liability from lawsuits or business debts
- Lets you operate under a brand name
- Makes your business look more professional
- Easier to open a business bank account
- May offer tax advantages (if taxed as an S Corp)
Many brokers and clients prefer working with realtors who operate under an LLC for legal and financial transparency.
📋 When to Get an EIN as a Realtor
Here’s a breakdown of your EIN timing options:
| Situation | Recommended EIN Timing |
|---|---|
| Just starting, sole prop | Apply now under your name |
| Planning to form an LLC soon | Wait and apply after LLC is formed |
| Already have an LLC | Apply now with LLC details |
| Need to separate personal income | Apply now (EIN under your SSN) |
📦 Pro Tip: EINs Are Not Transferable
If you apply for an EIN now as a sole proprietor and later form an LLC, you’ll need to get a new EIN for the LLC.
So, if you plan to register an LLC soon, it’s better to:
✅ Form the LLC first
➡️ Then apply for the EIN with the LLC details
💼 Need Help Forming Your Realtor LLC?
At FormLLC, we help real estate professionals like you go from independent agent to protected business owner.
✅ LLC registration in your state
✅ EIN (delivered fast)
✅ BOI report filing
✅ Operating Agreement
✅ Business email, website, and phone setup
📧 Email: contact@formllc.us
🌐 Website: www.formllc.us
📱 WhatsApp: +91 6202619173
🧠 Final Thoughts
Yes, you can apply for an EIN without an LLC as a realtor — but forming an LLC gives you legal protection, branding power, and better tax options in the long run.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to go pro, make sure your business is set up right from day one.