Where to Request Your Tax ID

You request a Tax ID number (also called an EIN or Employer Identification Number) directly from the Internal Revenue Service. The IRS issues these numbers free of charge. You do not go through a bank, accountant, or third-party service — you contact the IRS itself, though you can have a representative help you with the paperwork.

The IRS offers three ways to request a Tax ID: online through their website, by phone, or by mail. The online method is fastest and gives you a number the same day. The phone line takes about 15 minutes and you receive your number immediately. Mail takes two to four weeks.

You will need to provide your legal name, business address (or home address if you are self-employed), the type of business structure you have, and the reason you need the number. The IRS also asks when your business started or will start operating.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS issues Tax ID numbers free through their website, phone line, or by mail — no fee applies regardless of which method you choose.
  • Applying online through IRS.gov gives you a number the same day; the phone line (1-800-829-4933) takes about 15 minutes and provides immediate confirmation.
  • You need your Social Security number, business structure type (sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, partnership), and business address before you start.
  • Mail applications take two to four weeks, so use this method only if you cannot access the phone or online options.

Applying Online Through the IRS Website

Go to IRS.gov and search for "Apply for an EIN Online." The form is called Form SS-4, and the online version walks you through each question. You enter your information, submit, and receive your Tax ID number on the screen immediately. You can print or save the confirmation page.

Online applications are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern Time. The system is down on weekends and federal holidays. If you apply outside these hours, you can still start the form, but you cannot submit it until the system reopens.

You will need your Social Security number, the legal name of your business, your business address, and the date you started or plan to start operations. Have this information ready before you begin — the form does not save your progress if you close the browser.

Calling the IRS to Request Your Tax ID by Phone

Call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. The line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time. Have your Social Security number, business name, business address, and business structure type ready before you call.

The agent will ask you the same questions as the online form and will issue your Tax ID number during the call. They will give you a confirmation number and may mail you a formal letter with your number printed on it. The letter usually arrives within two weeks, but you can use the number the IRS gave you over the phone immediately.

Wait times vary. During tax season (January through April) and in the morning, hold times can be 30 minutes or longer. Calling in the afternoon or on Thursday or Friday often means shorter waits.

Mailing Your Tax ID Application

If you cannot use the phone or online options, you can mail Form SS-4 to the IRS. Download the form from IRS.gov, fill it out by hand or type it, and mail it to the address listed on the form. The address depends on your state.

Processing takes two to four weeks from the date the IRS receives your form. You will receive your Tax ID number by mail. If you need the number sooner, you can call the IRS after two weeks to ask if your application has been processed.

Mail this form only if you have no access to a phone or internet. The online and phone methods are faster and more reliable.

What Information You Need Before You Apply

Gather these items before you contact the IRS:

  • Your Social Security number
  • The legal name of your business (exactly as it appears on your business registration or as you plan to register it)
  • Your business address (a physical street address, not a P.O. box)
  • Your business structure type: sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, S corporation, C corporation, or nonprofit
  • The date your business started or will start
  • A description of what your business does

If you are applying on behalf of someone else, you will also need to provide your name, title, and phone number. The IRS may call to verify the information.

Tax ID Numbers for Different Business Types

A Tax ID number works the same way regardless of your business structure, but the IRS may ask follow-up questions based on what you tell them. If you are a sole proprietor (self-employed with no employees), you can use your Social Security number as your Tax ID, but many sole proprietors request a separate Tax ID anyway for privacy and record-keeping.

If you have employees, you must have a Tax ID number — you cannot use your Social Security number. The same is true for partnerships, LLCs, S corporations, and C corporations. Nonprofits also receive Tax ID numbers, and the process is the same.

If you are not sure what business structure you have, look at your business registration documents or ask your accountant. The IRS form will not process if you select the wrong type.

After You Receive Your Tax ID Number

Once you have your Tax ID number, write it down and keep it in a safe place. You will use it on tax returns, business licenses, bank account applications, and payroll documents. The IRS will not reissue the same number if you lose it — you will need to request a new one.

If you received your number by phone or online, the IRS will mail you an official letter (Form SS-4 Confirmation) within two weeks. Keep this letter with your tax records. If you need proof of your Tax ID number before the letter arrives, you can print the confirmation page from the online application or ask the IRS agent for a confirmation number during your phone call.

Your Tax ID number does not expire. You use the same number for the life of your business, even if you move, change your business name, or restructure your business. If your business closes, you do not need to cancel the number — just stop using it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Social Security number instead of getting a Tax ID?

If you are self-employed with no employees, you can use your Social Security number as your Tax ID on tax returns. However, many sole proprietors request a separate Tax ID for privacy and to keep business and personal finances separate. If you hire employees, you must have a Tax ID number — you cannot use your Social Security number.

How long does it take to get a Tax ID number?

Online applications give you a number the same day. Phone applications take about 15 minutes and provide immediate confirmation. Mail applications take two to four weeks. If you need the number urgently, use the online or phone method.

Is there a fee to get a Tax ID number?

No. The IRS issues Tax ID numbers free of charge. Do not pay anyone to obtain a Tax ID for you — legitimate services may charge a small fee for paperwork help, but the IRS itself charges nothing.

What if I applied online but did not save my confirmation number?

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 with your business name and address, and they can look up your Tax ID number. Have your Social Security number ready. The agent will confirm the number and can mail you an official letter if you need one.

Can I change my Tax ID number if I change my business name?

No. Your Tax ID number stays the same even if you change your business name, move, or restructure your business. You do not need a new number unless your business closes and you start a completely new business.