An Employer Identification
Number (EIN)
is also known as a
Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to identify a business entity.
Generally, businesses need an EIN. You may apply for an EIN in various ways, and now you may apply online. This
is a free service offered by the Internal Revenue Service. You must check with your state
to make sure you need a state number or charter.
- Do You Need an
EIN?
- Do You Need a New
EIN?
- How to Apply for an
EIN
- How Long Will it Take to Get a Number?
- Misplaced Your
EIN?
- How EINs
are Assigned and Valid
EIN Prefixes
- Canceling an
EIN – Closing Your Account
- Who is a Responsible Party?
Apply for an
EIN Online
Check out Interview-style online EIN application at IRS. No need to file a Form SS-4! IRS ask you the questions and you give them your
answers. The application includes embedded help topics and hyperlinked keywords
and definitions so separate instructions aren’t needed. After all validations are
done you will get your
EIN immediately upon completion. You can then download, save, and print
your confirmation notice. It’s fast, free, and user-friendly!
Change of Ownership or Structure
Generally, businesses need a new EIN when their ownership or structure has changed. Refer
to "Do You Need a New
EIN?" to determine if this applies to your business
Due to a high volume of requests for EINs, the IRS will begin limiting the number of EINs assigned per day to a responsible party. Effective
April 11, 2011, a responsible party will be limited to five (5) EINs in one business day. This limit is in effect whether
you apply online, by phone, fax
or mail.