EIN for Amazon, Shopify, and online sellers

Dec. 10, 2025, 12:47 p.m.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is often needed by ecommerce sellers to verify their business identity, file taxes, and open financial accounts. While not always required, an EIN can make operating on Amazon, Shopify, Etsy, eBay, Walmart Marketplace, and other platforms much easier.
EIN for Amazon

Do You Need an EIN to Sell Online?

You MUST have an EIN if:

  • You operate as an LLC (multi-member), corporation, or partnership

  • You hire employees

  • You file excise or employment taxes

  • You want to open a business bank account

  • A payment processor requires one (Stripe, PayPal sometimes do)

You MAY NOT need an EIN if:

  • You are a sole proprietor with no employees

  • You plan to use your Social Security Number (SSN) instead

  • You sell small amounts casually or as a hobby

EIN Requirements by Platform

1. Amazon Seller Central

Amazon usually requires an EIN for:

  • LLCs and corporations (mandatory)

  • Foreign-owned businesses

  • Sellers who want to separate personal identity from business identity

Sole proprietors can use an SSN, but many choose to obtain an EIN to avoid giving Amazon their personal ID number.

Amazon uses your EIN for:

  • Tax interviews (W-9/W-8BEN)

  • Identity verification

  • 1099-K reporting

2. Shopify Store Owners

Shopify itself does not require an EIN, but:

  • Shopify Payments might require one for businesses

  • Other connected payment processors (Stripe, PayPal, Sezzle, etc.) may require it

  • You’ll need an EIN to form an LLC or open a business bank account

For U.S. LLCs and corporations, an EIN is essentially required to operate properly.

3. Other Online Marketplaces

Platform EIN Required? Notes
Etsy SSN or EIN Required for 1099-K reporting
eBay SSN or EIN Business accounts often need an EIN
Walmart Marketplace Usually YES Requires business verification
Shopify (indirect) Sometimes Payment processors may require EIN
PayPal/Stripe Not always, but often Required for business accounts

Why Online Sellers Should Get an EIN

Even when optional, an EIN is beneficial because it:

 Separates personal and business identity

Avoids sharing your SSN with multiple platforms.

 Helps you open business financial accounts

Banks, credit cards, and lenders often require an EIN.

 Supports tax compliance

Especially for LLCs, corporations, or high-volume sellers.

 Simplifies marketplace onboarding

Amazon, Walmart, and some processors verify identity via EIN.

 

How to Get an EIN (Free)

You can apply:

You’ll receive an EIN Assignment Letter (CP 575), which Amazon/Shopify may require during verification.