I would not recommend using your SSN as your EIN on the tax returns, as that shows up on prepared tax returns.  If you have a PTIN, you do not need to enter an EIN for the program.

I have an EFIN. I have been doing doing returns with this software for five or six years. This is the first time this error message has popped up. It’s very strange.

I have heard from several posts that the programs this year are particularly quirky with self prepared and non-paid preparer returns.  The easy 'cheat' is to not say it was self prepared.

Thank you. That’s a good idea.

You should be able to click non paid preparer. Then unclick the next item for paid preparer as designee.... fill in the blanks.... as for the tax id no. I'd use the company EIN on Sch C.