EIN cannot verify have another business

Shopify Discussion

Topic summary

A sole proprietor is unable to verify their EIN on Shopify despite having a legitimate business with payroll. The IRS confirmed that sole proprietors receive only one EIN regardless of how many businesses they operate, but Shopify’s system rejects the existing EIN and has now locked the user out of their account.

Key Issues:

  • EIN verification fails when the business name doesn’t exactly match IRS records
  • User is locked out after multiple verification attempts
  • Shopify’s verification team has been contacted but hasn’t responded
  • No direct phone support available for immediate resolution

Suggested Solutions:

  • Enter the exact legal business name as registered with the IRS (from SS-4 confirmation letter)
  • Follow up persistently with Shopify’s verification team via chat or email
  • Temporarily register as an individual using SSN instead of EIN to get the store operational
  • Try accessing the account through incognito mode or after clearing browser cache
  • Contact IRS at 800-829-4933 to confirm the exact business name on file

Status: The issue remains unresolved and awaiting response from Shopify’s verification team.

Summarized with AI on November 1. AI used: claude-sonnet-4-5-20250929.
1

Hi

I have another brick and morter business as a sole proprietorship with an EIN as I have payroll.

The IRS will not give me another EIN and said as a sole proprietorship you only get 1 ein even if you have more then 1 business. When I tried to use that EIN it has an error. I was going to go back and try and put the name of the business as the brick and morter which is what it’s registered under but now I am locked out.

Shopify customer service is no help and don’t even understand what I’m saying. They have sent it to their verification team but I have heard nothing. I can’t be the first person to try and register an ein with multiple businesses. I can’t believe shopify has no customer service number to a live person. So now I am in limbo.

2 Likes
2

Hi @molly1414

I see what you’re going through, and I can completely understand how frustrating this must be—especially when you’re just trying to get things set up properly but keep hitting roadblocks. Let’s go over what’s happening and how you can move forward.

Why Your EIN Isn’t Working on Shopify

Since you’re a sole proprietor, the IRS only issues one EIN, no matter how many businesses you run under that structure. That’s why they won’t give you a second one. The problem is that Shopify’s system sometimes struggles with EINs for sole proprietors who have multiple businesses, especially when the business name doesn’t exactly match IRS records.

Steps to Fix the Issue#### 1. Use the Correct Business Name on Shopify- When entering your EIN on Shopify, try using the exact legal name that the IRS has on file for your sole proprietorship (not your DBA or second business name).

  • If the EIN is tied to your first business, enter that business name exactly as it appears on IRS documents.
  • If you’re unsure, check the SS-4 confirmation letter from the IRS or call them (800-829-4933) to confirm what’s on file.

2. Wait for Shopify’s Verification Team- Since Shopify already escalated this to their verification team, they will likely need to manually review and approve your EIN entry.

  • Unfortunately, response times can vary, but you can follow up via Shopify support chat or email and request an update. If you don’t hear back soon, I’d recommend messaging them again.

3. Alternative Workarounds While You Wait- If you need to get your Shopify store up and running ASAP, you can temporarily register as an individual (using your Social Security Number instead of EIN).

  • Once Shopify resolves the EIN issue, you can update your tax details later.

4. Try Re-Accessing Your Account- Since you’re locked out now, try clearing your browser cache or using incognito mode to log back in.

  • If that doesn’t work, you might need to reset your password or contact Shopify again for account access.

Final Thoughts

You’re right—you’re definitely not the first person to run into this. Shopify’s EIN system isn’t perfect when it comes to sole proprietors with multiple businesses. Your best bet is to keep pushing their support team and make sure the EIN matches exactly how the IRS has it on file.

If you need any other assistance, I am willing to help.
Best regards,
Daisy.

3

Hi @Kwms75

I’m truly sorry to hear about your experience with the “hkuniversityy” store on Shopify. It’s frustrating to deal with such situations, especially when the store has vanished, leaving you without a direct way to resolve the issue. Let’s explore the steps you can take to address this problem.

  1. Reporting the Fraudulent Store to Shopify

Even though the store is no longer active, you can still report it to Shopify:

  • Use Shopify’s Report a Merchant Tool: Shopify provides a platform to report merchants violating their policies. You can access it here: Report a Merchant.
  • Provide Detailed Information: When filling out the report, include all relevant details such as the store’s name (“hkuniversityy”), the nature of the issue (non-delivery of an iPad), and any supporting documentation like your confirmation email and transaction records.
  1. Contacting Shopify Support

I understand your concern about the challenges in reaching Shopify’s support team without a store account. While Shopify has shifted away from direct email support, you can still connect with them:

  • Shopify Help Center: Visit the Shopify Help Center and use the chat assistant. You can indicate that you don’t have a store but need assistance with a fraudulent merchant. This should guide you to a support advisor.
  • Social Media: Reach out to @ShopifySupport on Twitter. Many users have found success contacting them through this channel.
  1. Seeking a Refund Through Your Bank

Since you’re already in touch with your bank:

  • Provide All Documentation: Share the confirmation email, transaction details, and any correspondence with the seller. This will strengthen your case for a chargeback.
  • Emphasize the Fraudulent Nature: Clearly state that the merchant has disappeared and failed to deliver the purchased item, which constitutes fraud.
  1. Collaborating with Others Affected

Given that others have faced similar issues with this store:

  • Gather Information: Collect details from other affected individuals, including their transaction records and communications.
  • File a Collective Report: While Shopify doesn’t have a specific process for class-action complaints, submitting multiple reports can highlight the severity of the issue.

I hope these steps help you navigate this challenging situation. If you need any other assistance, I am willing to help.

Best regards,

Daisy.