11.4- Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Apply for EIN Online

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to identify a business entity. Generally, businesses need an EIN. You may apply for an EIN in various ways, and now you may apply online. This is a free service offered by the Internal Revenue Service and you can get your EIN immediately. You must check with your state to make sure you need a state number or charter.

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  Do You Need an EIN?
  

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  Do You Need a New EIN?
  

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  How to Apply for an EIN
  

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  How Long Will it Take to Get a Number?
  

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  Lost or Misplaced Your EIN?
  

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  How EINs are Assigned and Valid EIN Prefixes
  

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  Canceling an EIN – Closing Your Account
  

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  What to Do if You’re Assigned an EIN You Did Not Request
  
  

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  Who is a Responsible Party?
  

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  Report EIN Identity Theft

Check out our Interview-style online EIN application. No need to file a Form SS-4! We ask you the questions and you give us the answers. The application includes embedded help topics and hyperlinked keywords and definitions so separate instructions aren’t needed. After all validations are done you will get your EIN immediately upon completion. You can then download, save, and print your confirmation notice. It’s fast, free, and user-friendly!

All EIN applications (mail, fax, electronic) must disclose the name and Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, or EIN) of the true principal officer, general partner, grantor, owner or trustor. This individual or entity, which the IRS will call the “responsible party,” controls, manages, or directs the applicant entity and the disposition of its funds and assets. Unless the applicant is a government entity, the responsible party must be an individual (i.e., a natural person), not an entity.

Filing for Tax Exempt Status?

It’s best to be sure your organization is formed legally before you apply for an EIN. Nearly all organizations are subject to automatic revocation of their tax-exempt status if they fail to file a required return or notice for three consecutive years. When you apply for an EIN, we presume you’re legally formed and the clock starts running on this three-year period.

Change of Ownership or Structure

Generally, businesses need a new EIN when their ownership or structure has changed. Refer to "Do You Need a New EIN?" to determine if this applies to your business.

Verify Your EIN

If you want to verify your EIN, see the Lost or Misplaced Your EIN page for instructions.

Daily Limitation of an Employer Identification Number

Effective May 21, 2012, to ensure fair and equitable treatment for all taxpayers, the Internal Revenue Service will limit Employer Identification Number (EIN) issuance to one per responsible party per day. This limitation is applicable to all requests for EINs whether online or by fax or mail. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.