Employer Identification Number (EIN)

What is an Employer Identification Number (EIN)?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business entity for tax purposes. It is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number and is required for businesses to file taxes, hire employees, open business bank accounts, and handle other official financial activities.

Why would I need an EIN number?

You might need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for several reasons, including:

• Starting a Business: Most businesses, including corporations, partnerships, and LLCs, require an EIN to operate legally.
• Hiring Employees: If you plan to hire employees, the IRS requires an EIN to report payroll taxes.
• Filing Taxes: An EIN is needed to file federal and state tax returns, including income, employment, and excise taxes.
• Opening a Business Bank Account: Banks typically require an EIN to open a business account.
• Establishing Business Credit: An EIN helps separate personal and business finances, which is critical for building business credit.
• Applying for Licenses or Permits: Certain business licenses or permits require an EIN.
• Nonprofit or PTO Activities: Organizations like Parent Teacher Organizations (PTOs) often need an EIN to establish tax-exempt status or manage finances.

Having an EIN helps establish your business as a separate legal entity and ensures compliance with tax regulations.

How do I find my employer ID number?

To find your Employer Identification Number (EIN), you can use one of the following methods:

• Check Official Documents:
  • Look for the EIN on your business’s IRS confirmation letter (Form CP 575).
  • It may also appear on past tax returns, payroll tax filings, or W-2 forms issued to employees.
• Check Business Records:
  • Review your bank account documents; the EIN is often required when opening a business account.
  • Examine applications for business licenses or permits where the EIN might be listed.
• Contact the IRS:
  • Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 (Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. local time).
  • Have identifying information ready to verify your authority to request the EIN.
• Check With a Payroll or Tax Professional:
  • If you use a payroll service or accountant, they may have your EIN on file.
• Search Online Records:
  • If your business is a publicly registered entity, you might find the EIN on certain public documents or databases (e.g., SEC filings or charity websites).

Always keep your EIN secure to prevent unauthorized use.

Can I use my SSN as my EIN?

In some cases, you can use your Social Security Number (SSN) instead of an Employer Identification Number (EIN), but only if:

1. You’re a Sole Proprietor or Single-Member LLC:
   • The IRS allows sole proprietors and single-member LLCs with no employees to use their SSN for tax purposes.
2. You Have No Specific EIN Requirements:
   • If you don’t need an EIN for hiring employees, opening a business bank account, or other business operations, you can file taxes under your SSN.

However, you may still want an EIN even if it’s not required, because:

• Privacy: An EIN allows you to avoid using your SSN on forms shared with vendors, clients, or contractors.
• Business Legitimacy: Many banks and creditors require an EIN to establish business accounts and credit.

If your business grows to require an EIN (e.g., hiring employees or forming a partnership or corporation), you can apply for one at any time for free through the IRS website.

How do I get an EIN number?

You can get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for free directly from the IRS using one of the following methods:

Online Application (Fastest and Recommended)

• Go to the IRS EIN Online Assistant.
• Complete the application, which typically takes about 15 minutes.
• You’ll receive your EIN immediately upon completing the process.
• Requirements: You must be located in the U.S. or U.S. Territories, and the responsible party applying must have a valid SSN, ITIN, or EIN.

By Phone (For International Applicants)

• If you’re outside the U.S., call the IRS at 1-267-941-1099 (not toll-free) during business hours.
• You’ll receive the EIN during the call.

By Fax

• Fill out Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number).
• Fax the completed form to the IRS at (855) 641-6935.
• You’ll receive your EIN by fax within 4 business days.

By Mail

• Complete Form SS-4 and mail it to:
  • Internal Revenue Service
    Attn: EIN Operation
    Cincinnati, OH 45999
• Processing time is 4–5 weeks.

Tips:

• The EIN application is free, so avoid third-party services that charge fees.
• Have all necessary business information ready, including legal name, structure, and responsible party’s SSN or ITIN.

How much does an EIN cost?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is completely free to obtain through the IRS. There are no fees for applying, regardless of whether you apply online, by fax, by mail, or by phone.

Beware of third-party services that may charge a fee to help you apply for an EIN. These services are not necessary since you can easily apply for an EIN yourself directly with the IRS.

How long does it take to get an EIN?

The time it takes to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) depends on the application method you choose:

• Online Application:
  • Processing Time: Immediate.
  • You’ll receive your EIN as soon as you complete the application process.
  • Recommended for the fastest results.
• By Phone (International Applicants Only):
  • Processing Time: Immediate.
  • You’ll get your EIN during the call after verifying your information.
• By Fax:
  • Processing Time: 4 business days.
  • The IRS will fax back your EIN once they process your application.
• By Mail:
  • Processing Time: 4–5 weeks.
  • The IRS will mail your EIN confirmation letter after processing your application.

To avoid delays, ensure your application is complete and accurate, regardless of the method you choose.

How can I check my EIN status?

To check the status of your Employer Identification Number (EIN) application or confirm your EIN, you can use one of the following methods:

If You Applied Online:

• If your application was completed online, you would have received your EIN immediately. Check the confirmation page or any saved or printed records from your application.

If You Applied by Fax or Mail:

• Processing typically takes 4 business days (fax) or 4–5 weeks (mail). You can check the status by calling the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 (Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. local time). Be prepared to verify your identity.

Review Business Documents:

• If you’ve previously received your EIN but misplaced it, check:
  • IRS confirmation letter (CP 575).
  • Business tax returns.
  • Payroll forms (e.g., W-2 or 1099 forms).
  • Bank or loan documents.

Contact the IRS for Verification:

• If you’re unable to locate your EIN, the IRS can verify it over the phone. Only authorized individuals (such as the business owner or responsible party) can make this request.

Tips:

• Keep your EIN records secure and organized to avoid issues.
• The IRS does not issue duplicate EINs, so if your EIN is already assigned, you won’t need to reapply.