How to Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

## Understanding the Employer Identification Number (EIN) An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify businesses operating in the United States. Think of it as a Social Security number for your business, used for tax administration and various business activities. ## Who Needs an EIN? You're required to obtain an EIN if: 1. You have employees 2. Your business operates as a corporation or partnership 3. You file employment, excise, or alcohol/tobacco/firearms tax returns 4. You withhold taxes on income paid to non-resident aliens 5. You have a Keogh plan 6. You operate as a non-profit organization 7. You represent an estate or trust 8. You represent a government agency Even if not required, obtaining an EIN can help separate personal and business finances and protect your Social Security number from unnecessary exposure. ## Required Information Before starting your application, gather the following: * Legal name and address of the business * Trade name (if applicable) * Responsible party's name and SSN/ITIN * Type of business entity * Reason for applying * Principal business activity * Starting date of business * Number of employees expected * First date wages will be paid (if applicable) * Physical business location ## How to Apply for an EIN ### Online Application (Preferred Method) The fastest and most convenient way is through the [IRS EIN Assistant](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/get-an-employer-identification-number). **Key points about online application:** * Available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time * Completely free * Provides immediate results * Must complete in one session * Limited to one EIN per responsible party per day ### Alternative Methods If you can't apply online, other options include: 1. **Fax**: Submit Form SS-4 to the appropriate IRS fax number. Processing takes about four business days. 2. **Mail**: Send completed Form SS-4 to the IRS address listed on the form. Processing takes 4-6 weeks. 3. **Phone**: International applicants can call 267-941-1099 (Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time). ## After Obtaining Your EIN Once you receive your EIN: 1. Keep the confirmation letter in a safe place 2. Update your business documents with the new number 3. Use it to open a business bank account 4. Include it on all federal tax filings 5. Provide it to vendors, clients, or partners when required > **Important**: If you lose your EIN, you can retrieve it by: > * Checking previous tax returns > * Contacting banks where you opened accounts > * Calling the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 ## Special Considerations ### Change in Business Structure If your business structure changes (e.g., sole proprietorship to corporation), you'll need to apply for a new EIN. ### Multiple Businesses Each separate business entity requires its own EIN. However, if you own multiple businesses under the same structure, you may be able to use one EIN. ## Additional Resources For more detailed information, visit: - [IRS EIN FAQs](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed) - [Form SS-4 Instructions](https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/iss4.pdf) - [IRS Contact Information](https://www.irs.gov/help/contact-your-local-irs-office) - [Federal Trade Commission (FTC) website](https://www.ftc.gov/) Remember that obtaining an EIN is completely free through the IRS. Beware of third-party services charging fees for EIN application assistance.

How to Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Related articles