How to Get a Federal Tax ID Number

What a Federal Tax ID Number Is and Who Needs One

A Federal Tax ID Number, also called an Employer Identification Number or EIN, is a nine-digit identifier the IRS assigns to businesses, nonprofits, trusts, and certain individuals. It works like a Social Security number does for people, but for tax purposes tied to a business entity or organization rather than a person.

You need an EIN if you operate a business as a sole proprietor with employees, run a partnership, own a corporation or LLC, operate a nonprofit, manage a trust or estate, or file certain tax forms. If you are self-employed with no employees and file taxes under your own name, you may not need one — you can use your Social Security number instead. The IRS does not charge for an EIN, and you do not need to hire a tax professional to get one.

Key Takeaways

You can get an EIN free from the IRS by applying online at irs.gov, by mail, by fax, or by phone, with online being the fastest option.
The online application takes about 15 minutes and you receive your EIN immediately after you submit it, with no waiting period.
You will need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, your business name and address, and information about the business structure and ownership.
The IRS mails a confirmation letter to your address within two weeks, but you can start using the EIN right away after you receive it online.
If you apply by mail or fax, the process takes two to four weeks, so online is the better choice unless you have no internet access.

Applying Online Through the IRS Website

The fastest way to get an EIN is to apply online at irs.gov/ein. The application is called Form SS-4, and the online version takes about 15 minutes to complete. You will need your Social Security number or ITIN, your business name exactly as it will appear on tax forms, your business address, and the date you started or plan to start the business.

When you submit the online form, the IRS system processes it immediately and displays your EIN on the screen. You can write it down, take a screenshot, or print the confirmation page. The IRS will mail you an official confirmation letter within two weeks, but you do not have to wait for that letter to use the number — you can begin using your EIN right away for opening bank accounts, hiring employees, or filing tax forms.

You must apply during IRS business hours, which are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time. The system is closed on federal holidays. If you try to apply outside these hours, you will see a message telling you to try again later.

Applying by Mail or Fax if You Cannot Go Online

If you do not have internet access or prefer not to apply online, you can mail or fax Form SS-4 to the IRS. You can download the form from irs.gov or call 1-800-829-3676 to request a copy by mail.

To apply by mail, fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it to the IRS address listed in the form instructions — the address varies by state. Processing takes two to four weeks. To apply by fax, fill out the form, sign it, and fax it to the number in the instructions for your state. Fax processing also takes two to four weeks, though fax is slightly faster than mail in most cases.

Keep a copy of the form you submit and note the date you mailed or faxed it. When you receive your confirmation letter in the mail, check that all the information matches what you submitted. If something is wrong, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 to request a correction.

What Information You Need to Provide

Before you start your application, gather these documents and details:

Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
Your business name, exactly as it will appear on tax documents
Your business mailing address and physical location (if different)
The date you started the business or the date you plan to start it
Your business structure: sole proprietorship, partnership, S corporation, C corporation, LLC, nonprofit, trust, or other
The primary business activity or industry code (the IRS provides a list to choose from)
The number of employees you have or plan to have
Your name and title if you are the owner or authorized representative

If you are applying on behalf of a business you do not own — for example, as a manager or accountant — you may need to provide a power of attorney or written authorization. The IRS form includes a section to indicate who is applying and in what capacity.

Timeline From Application to Using Your EIN

The timeline depends on which method you choose. If you apply online, you have your EIN within minutes and can use it immediately. If you apply by fax, you typically have your number within two to four weeks. If you apply by mail, expect two to four weeks as well, though mail is often slower in practice.

You do not have to wait for the confirmation letter to arrive to use your EIN. As soon as you receive the number — whether on screen, by phone, or in a letter — you can provide it to your bank, your employees, vendors, or anyone else who asks for it. The confirmation letter is proof of your EIN, so keep it in a safe place once it arrives.

If you need your EIN urgently and cannot wait for mail or fax processing, you can also call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 during business hours. A representative can walk you through the application over the phone and give you your EIN immediately. This method takes about 15 minutes and works if you have all your information ready.

What Happens After You Receive Your EIN

Once you have your EIN, you can open a business bank account, hire employees, and file business tax returns. Your bank will ask for your EIN when you open the account. If you have employees, you will use your EIN to file payroll tax forms and report wages to the IRS.

The IRS will begin sending you tax forms and notices to the address you provided on your application. Make sure the address is current. If you move, you can update your address by calling 1-800-829-4933 or by mailing Form 8822-B to the IRS.

Your EIN does not expire. You keep the same number for the life of your business, even if you change the business name, structure, or location. If your business closes, you do not need to cancel the EIN — you simply stop using it and file a final tax return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an EIN if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you are not a U.S. citizen or do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. You must first obtain an ITIN from the IRS by filing Form W-7. Once you have an ITIN, you can use it to apply for an EIN through any of the methods described above.

Do I need an EIN if I am a sole proprietor with no employees?

Not necessarily. If you operate as a sole proprietor and have no employees, you can use your Social Security number on your tax return instead of an EIN. However, some sole proprietors choose to get an EIN anyway to keep their business finances separate from personal finances or to open a business bank account. Getting an EIN is optional in this situation.

What if I already have an EIN and need a replacement?

If you have lost your EIN or cannot find your confirmation letter, call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 and provide your business name and Social Security number. A representative can look up your existing EIN and provide it to you over the phone. You do not need to apply for a new one.

Can someone else apply for an EIN on my behalf?

Yes. An accountant, attorney, or other authorized representative can apply for an EIN on your behalf. If you apply online or by phone, the representative can do it directly. If you apply by mail or fax, the representative signs the form and includes a power of attorney or written authorization from you.

How much does it cost to get an EIN?

There is no cost. The IRS does not charge a fee for issuing an EIN, whether you apply online, by phone, by fax, or by mail. Be cautious of websites or services that charge money to help you get an EIN — you can always apply directly to the IRS for free.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.