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dso0216
Level 6

2 Companies 1 EIN

My client has 2 companies with 1 EIN.  They are currently on QBDT with 2 separate company files.  The client needs to keep this set-up.  The DBA name is different for each and ADP runs the payroll separately.  I'm trying to get both companies to QBO.  Is it possible to have 2 different company files set-up in QBO?  Or does the client have to get a separate TIN one of the companies.

PS.  His attorney thinks there might be an issue with re-negotiating leases, etc., if one of the businesses get a new EIN.

Solved
Best answer July 18, 2025

Best Answers
BigRedConsulting
Community Champion

2 Companies 1 EIN

It seems you should be able to set up two companies using the same EIN.  Since you're not running payroll in QuickBooks, which would complicate things, that should work OK.

View solution in original post

4 Comments 4
KiazzymaeC
QuickBooks Team

2 Companies 1 EIN

Yes,  you can create multiple company files in QuickBooks under a single account, Dso0216. However, when it comes to using the same Employer Identification Number (EIN) for two different companies, there are some factors to consider.

 

If the companies are legally separate entities, each should have its own Employer Identification Number (EIN) to avoid complications with tax reporting, state compliance, and other legal issues.

 

However, if both companies are operating under different Doing Business As (DBA) names but are legally the same entity, they can technically operate under the same EIN. Still, it's best to consult an accountant or a lawyer for advice tailored to your specific situation and for proper guidance.

 

To track different parts of your business, I suggest using the class tracking or locations feature. This will help you create accurate financial reports while keeping an eye on various areas of your operations.

 

You can also run reports by class to analyze the performance of different business segments, helping you identify trends, track expenses, and make informed decisions.

 
Also, you might want to consider our QuickBooks Live Expert Assisted service to help you manage transactions and ensure your account information remains accurate. Our team of experts is ready to assist you with matching and categorizing your transactions as well as reconciling your accounts!

 

Feel free to click the Reply button if you have any further questions or concerns. We're here to help!

dso0216
Level 6

2 Companies 1 EIN

You do understand I'm referring to QBO not QBDT correct?

BigRedConsulting
Community Champion

2 Companies 1 EIN

It seems you should be able to set up two companies using the same EIN.  Since you're not running payroll in QuickBooks, which would complicate things, that should work OK.

dso0216
Level 6

2 Companies 1 EIN

I am the accountant.  The companies were set-up this way many years ago.  There are 2 separate stores.  They could have used the location tracking but there are additional complications.  I came in the picture long after set-up.  In hindsight their attorney has told them it would have been best to have 2 separate EIN's, although, ADP runs 2 separate payrolls and is able to file separate reports for all but the PA Unemployment (another situation entirely) there are also separate bank accounts and credit card accounts.  The attorney has told me to accomplish the entity separation with a different EIN now would create complications, such as re-negotiating leases, etc.

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