Quote Quoting MaltbyMark
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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.
What distribution are you speaking of? There is no distribution. The account becomes the property of the designated beneficiary. That is all that happens.

Quote Quoting llworking
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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.
Not only would it be bad it is contrary to Illinois law whatever the plan admin may think.