Do I need a Tax ID number?

I have a photography business. I am completely home based, with no other employees under me. I do events, family portraits, engagements, etc. Do I need a Tax ID, for when I am writing off expenses on my taxes or what!?

If you're the sole proprietor, your social security number should suffice for write-offs, I believe.

Check out the IRS page below (home based business related) to verify that though.

Yes you do if you want to declare expenses. Very easy to get.

Your social security # is your tax I.D. # or you can apply for one but that's not necessary. You are a sole proprietor. Save all your receipts and keep track of your mileage on your vehicle.

The IRS allows you to deduct ALL ordinary and necessary expenses for your business.

You are a small business if you,
Offer your service/product to the general public.
Keep good records.
Have a separate checking account.

I've been self employed for 20 years. It's great.

Good Luck

No, you do not need one.

It may be something to think about in the long run though from an identity theft standpoint but not from a tax standpoint.

As of now, if a client of yours asks you to fill out a W9, you would have to give them your SSN. If you had a tax ID number, you could give them that instead.

It depends on a number of things:

There may be an advantage to file a LLC or incorporate vs. filing taxes as self-employed. There may be additional expenses you can write-off as LLC or corporation. Also, you would need to LLC, Incorporate or get a business license/file a name in your state before you get the EIN for US government. In addition if you incorporate and make yourself an officer there may be some advantages around income exemptions.

The main questions I ask are: do you own or rent office space? Do you lease or own company equipment or vehicles? Do you keep an inventory of products for sale and pay sales taxes? Do you pay yourself a salary or hourly wage?

Also what type of general ledger do you keep for the company? and what sort of Employer taxes are you paying?

Hopefully this helps but it would be best for you consult a CPA or a tax attorney.

Don't mess with the IRS!!

Yes, you do need a tax id. Depending on your location you may need a city and county license also. Home businesses are also subject to zoning laws that regulate how property can be used and may restrict various activities. You should check local zoning requirements and property covenants.
You can find this information at the court house or by calling your local license department.

Your Social Security Number is your tax ID number