Getting Your Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Getting Your Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in the United States is a straightforward process. An EIN is a unique identifier assigned to businesses by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax purposes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get an EIN:
Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure that:
  • Your business is located in the United States or U.S. territories.
  • The person applying has a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, or EIN).
Identify the Responsible Party
The IRS requires you to designate a “responsible party,” which is the person or entity responsible for controlling, managing, or directing the entity and the disposition of its funds and assets. For most businesses, this will be an owner, partner, or principal officer.
Choose Your Application Method
There are several ways to apply for an EIN:
Online Application
  • Availability: Available for all entities whose principal business, office or agency, or legal residence (in the case of an individual), is located in the United States or U.S. Territories.
  • Process: The application can be completed online via the IRS website.
  • Timeframe: You will receive your EIN immediately upon completion.
Mail Application
  • Process: Complete Form SS-4 and mail it to the IRS.
  • Timeframe: You will receive your EIN within 4 weeks.
  1. Fax Application
  • Process: Complete Form SS-4 and fax it to the appropriate fax number based on your business location.
  • Timeframe: You will receive your EIN within 4 business days.
Phone Application
  • Availability: Only available for international applicants.
  • Process: Call the IRS at (267) 941-1099 (not a toll-free number).
  • Timeframe: You will receive your EIN during the call.
Complete Form SS-4
Regardless of the method chosen, you will need to provide the following information on Form SS-4:
  • Legal name of the entity (or individual) for whom the EIN is being requested.
  • Trade name of the business (if different).
  • Mailing address.
  • Type of entity (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation).
  • Reason for applying (e.g., starting a new business, hiring employees).
  • Name and SSN, ITIN, or EIN of the responsible party.
  • Date the business was started or acquired.
  • Principal activity of the business.
Submit the Application
  • Online: Complete and submit the form through the IRS website.
  • Mail: Send the completed Form SS-4 to the appropriate IRS address listed on the form.
  • Fax: Fax the completed Form SS-4 to the appropriate IRS fax number.
  • Phone: Provide the required information to the IRS representative during your call.
Receive Your EIN
  • Online Application: You will receive your EIN immediately after completing the application.
  • Mail/Fax Application: You will receive your EIN by mail or fax within the specified timeframes.
  • Phone Application: You will receive your EIN during the phone call.
Important Considerations
  • Ensure all information provided is accurate to avoid delays.
  • Keep your EIN confirmation notice in a safe place; you will need it for various tax filings and business registrations.
  • If you lose your EIN, you can contact the IRS to retrieve it.
By following these steps, you can obtain an EIN efficiently and use it to meet your business’s tax obligations.
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