. What is an EIN?
1 A unique 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to your business.
2 Used for taxes, banking, and business credit applications.
3 Also called a Federal Tax ID Number.
2. Who Needs an EIN?
1 Anyone starting an LLC, corporation, partnership, or nonprofit.
2 Sole proprietors who want to separate personal and business finances.
3 Anyone hiring employees.
4 Anyone applying for business credit.
3. What You Need Before Applying
1 Your legal business name (must match state registration).
2 Your Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN.
3 Your business address and phone number.
4 The responsible party (usually you, the owner).
4. How to Apply (Online – Fastest Way)
1 Go to the official IRS website: irs.gov and search for “Apply for EIN”.
2 Click on “Apply Online Now”.
3 Complete the application (takes about 10 minutes).
4 You’ll get your EIN immediately in PDF form once approved.
5 Save the confirmation PDF – banks and lenders may ask for it.
5. Other Ways to Apply
1 By fax: Fill out IRS Form SS-4 and fax it to the IRS. Processing takes ~4 business days.
2 By mail: Send IRS Form SS-4 by mail (processing may take 4–6 weeks).
3 By phone: International applicants can call the IRS to apply.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
1 Paying third-party websites – the EIN is 100% free on IRS.g