What is a 147c Letter?
A 147c Letter, also known as an EIN Verification Letter, is an official document issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to confirm a business’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) and legal name as recorded in IRS records.
This letter is often required when a business needs to verify its EIN for various financial or legal purposes, such as opening a bank account, applying for a loan, working with vendors, or fulfilling government compliance requirements.
Unlike an EIN confirmation notice (CP 575), which is sent when a business first receives its EIN, a 147c Letter is specifically issued upon request when the original notice is lost or unavailable.
Do I need a 147c letter?
Businesses typically need a 147c Letter when financial institutions, state agencies, or other organizations require proof of an entity’s EIN and legal business name. This can happen in cases where there is a discrepancy in records, missing documentation, or a need to establish clear identification for tax reporting purposes. If a business is undergoing a name change, merger, or restructuring, the 147c Letter may also be necessary to update records with third parties.
How do I get a 147c letter from the IRS?
To obtain a 147c Letter, the business owner or an authorized representative must contact the IRS directly by calling the Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. The IRS does not provide this letter online or through email due to security reasons. When requesting the letter, the caller must verify their identity by providing details such as the business’s EIN, legal name, address, and possibly other identifying information. Once verified, the IRS can send the 147c Letter via mail or fax, but not through email.
Since obtaining a 147c Letter requires direct interaction with the IRS, businesses should plan ahead and ensure they have the necessary authorization and information ready before calling. Having this document on hand can prevent delays in financial transactions and compliance-related matters, making it an essential tool for maintaining proper business records.
