How to Obtain a Federal Tax ID Number (EIN) for Your Business

## What is a Federal Tax ID Number (EIN)? An **Employer Identification Number (EIN)** is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to businesses operating in the United States. It functions similarly to a Social Security Number for individuals and serves as your business's identifier for tax purposes. ## Who Needs an EIN? Your business needs an EIN if: * You have employees * Your business operates as a corporation or partnership * You file employment, excise, or alcohol/tobacco/firearms tax returns * You withhold taxes on income paid to non-resident aliens * You have a Keogh plan * You're involved with certain organizations like trusts or estates Even if not required, obtaining an EIN can be beneficial for: - Opening a Business Bank Account - Filing Business Taxes - Applying for Business Licenses - Establishing Business Credit ## Application Methods and Processing Times ### 1. Online Application (Recommended) The fastest and most convenient method is through the [IRS website](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/get-an-employer-identification-number). **Key benefits:** * Immediate processing * Instant EIN assignment * No paperwork to mail * Available Monday through Friday, 7am to 10pm Eastern time > **Important**: Complete the application in one session, as the system times out after 15 minutes of inactivity. ### 2. Alternative Methods - **Phone**: International applicants can call 267-941-1099 (6 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET) - **Fax**: Processing time is about four business days - **Mail**: Send Form SS-4; processing takes 4-6 weeks ## Required Information Before starting your application, gather: 1. Legal name of business 2. Trade name (if applicable) 3. Business address 4. Responsible party's Social Security number 5. Type of business entity 6. Reason for applying 7. Number of employees expected 8. First date of paying wages ## After Obtaining Your EIN ### Record Keeping Store your EIN documentation in multiple secure locations: * Physical business records * Digital backup * Cloud storage * With your accountant or legal advisor ### Usage Guidelines Your EIN should be used for: ``` - Business tax returns - Opening business bank accounts - Applying for business licenses - Filing employee tax records ``` ### Business Changes Notify the IRS if there are significant changes to your business: * Business structure changes * Ownership changes * New business acquisition * Creating a subsidiary --- Remember that your EIN is permanent and unique to your business. Even if you never use it, it cannot be canceled or reassigned. Keep this information secure and share it only with authorized parties who need it for legitimate business purposes. For additional assistance, visit the [IRS Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed) or consult with a qualified tax professional.

How to Obtain a Federal Tax ID Number (EIN) for Your Business

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