. 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