How to Get a Federal Tax ID Number

What a Federal Tax ID Is and Who Needs One

A Federal Tax ID, also called an Employer Identification Number (EIN), is a nine-digit number the IRS uses to identify your business, nonprofit, or other entity for tax purposes. It works like a Social Security number, but for organizations instead of individuals.

You need an EIN if you operate a business with employees, run a partnership, own an LLC or corporation, operate a nonprofit, or file certain tax forms. If you are a sole proprietor with no employees, you can use your Social Security number instead — but many sole proprietors get an EIN anyway to keep their personal and business finances separate.

The IRS does not charge for an EIN. You can obtain one the same day you request it, at no cost.

Key Takeaways

You can get an EIN free from the IRS by phone, online, by mail, or by fax, and the online method gives you a number the same day.
The IRS Form SS-4 is the only form you need to submit, and it asks for your business name, address, type of entity, and reason for needing an EIN.
If you apply online at irs.gov, you receive your EIN immediately and can print a confirmation letter on the spot.
By phone, mail, or fax, the process takes longer — typically one to four weeks — but works the same way.
You do not need a business license, bank account, or legal formation documents before you request an EIN.

Getting an EIN Online (Same-Day Option)

The fastest route is the IRS online system at irs.gov/ein. Go to the Business Services Online page and select "Apply for an EIN." You will answer questions about your business structure, name, address, and reason for needing the number. The process takes about 15 minutes.

At the end, the IRS displays your nine-digit EIN on screen. You can print a confirmation letter immediately, which counts as official proof of your number. You do not need to wait for anything in the mail. This letter is what you show to banks, vendors, and other organizations that ask for your EIN.

The online system is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time. It is not available on weekends or federal holidays.

Getting an EIN by Phone

Call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. Have Form SS-4 filled out before you call — the IRS representative will walk through it with you over the phone. The call usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

The IRS will give you your EIN verbally during the call. Write it down and ask the representative to mail you a confirmation letter, which you will receive in about two weeks. Until the letter arrives, keep a record of the call — the date, time, and the representative's name — in case you need to prove you have an EIN.

The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time.

Getting an EIN by Mail or Fax

Download Form SS-4 from irs.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it to the IRS address listed on the form. Processing takes two to four weeks. You can also fax the form to the same address — fax processing is slightly faster, usually one to two weeks.

The IRS will mail your confirmation letter to the address you provided on the form. Do not assume your EIN is active until you receive the letter. If you need the number sooner, call the IRS after two weeks to check the status.

What Information You Need to Provide

Before you request an EIN, gather these details:

Your legal business name (exactly as it appears on your formation documents, if you have them)
Your business mailing address
Your business physical address (if different from mailing address)
Your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
Your date of birth
The type of business entity (sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, S corporation, C corporation, nonprofit, trust, etc.)
The reason you need an EIN (opening a business, hiring employees, forming an LLC, etc.)
The date you started or plan to start your business

You do not need to have a business license, a bank account, or completed legal paperwork before you request an EIN. The IRS will issue one based on the information you provide.

After You Receive Your EIN

Once you have your EIN, use it on all business tax forms, bank accounts, business licenses, and vendor accounts. Keep your confirmation letter in a safe place — you may need to show it to banks, the IRS, or other organizations.

If you lose your confirmation letter, you can request a new one from the IRS by calling 1-800-829-4933 or by visiting irs.gov. The IRS can look up your EIN if you provide your business name and address.

Your EIN does not expire. Once issued, it is yours for the life of your business, even if you change your business name or structure later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an EIN if I do not have a business license yet?

Yes. You do not need a business license, incorporation documents, or a bank account to request an EIN. The IRS issues the number based on the information you provide on Form SS-4. You can obtain a business license afterward if your state or city requires one.

What if I need an EIN for a business that does not exist yet?

You can request an EIN before your business officially opens. On Form SS-4, enter the date you plan to start operations. The IRS will issue the number, and you can use it to open a bank account and set up vendor accounts before you launch.

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

No, you can use your Social Security number for tax purposes. However, many sole proprietors get an EIN anyway to keep personal and business finances separate and to protect their Social Security number from being shared with vendors and clients.

How long does it take to get an EIN by mail?

The IRS typically processes mailed Form SS-4 applications in two to four weeks. Faxed applications are faster, usually one to two weeks. If you need the number sooner, use the online system or call the IRS.

What if the IRS rejects my Form SS-4?

The IRS will contact you by mail if there is a problem with your application. Common reasons for rejection include missing information, an invalid address, or a mismatch between your name and Social Security number. Follow the instructions in the rejection letter to resubmit or call 1-800-829-4933 for help.

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.