Quote Quoting MaltbyMark
View Post
They may want a EIN because there may be income taxable to the estate that accumulated prior to distribution. Requesting a EIN may also be routine for the company, at which point arguing can be a little like debating with a wall.

Generating a EIN involves very little and I don't see a reason not to do so.
Its not getting the EIN that is a problem, its using the EIN.

Giving them an EIN for the estate means that the benefits administrator will issue the check in the name of the estate instead of the beneficiary. That can be VERY bad. Particularly if the estate has creditors.