What is an Employer Identification Number (EIN)?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique 9-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to businesses for tax reporting purposes. It is used to identify your business when filing taxes, applying for licenses, and interacting with the federal government.

Your EIN is critical for managing business tax obligations, opening a business bank account, and applying for federal and state programs.

Key Uses of Your Employer Identification Number:

  • Filing taxes and managing business taxes with the IRS.
  • Applying for business licenses and permits.
  • Opening a business bank account.
  • Registering for federal and state government programs.

Learn more about EIN and IRS Programs

How to Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

To get an EIN, you must apply with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The process is simple and can be completed online, by phone, or by mail.

Steps to Apply for an Employer Identification Number:

  1. Step 1: Gather the required information about your business, including legal name, business structure, and purpose.
  2. Step 2: Complete the online application on the IRS website, or contact the IRS by phone or mail.
  3. Step 3: Submit your application and wait for confirmation of your EIN, which will be issued immediately upon approval.

Once registered, you will receive your EIN, and you can begin using it for various business-related transactions with the IRS and other government services.

Registration Resources:

Register for IRS Program Accounts

Once you have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you may need to register for various IRS program accounts, such as payroll taxes, federal income tax withholding, and unemployment tax.

How to Register for an IRS Program Account:

  1. Step 1: Identify which IRS program accounts your business needs. This depends on your business activities (e.g., if you have employees or need to collect federal taxes).
  2. Step 2: Register online using the IRS’s online registration system, or call the IRS for assistance.
  3. Step 3: Follow the IRS’s instructions to provide the necessary information and complete the registration for each account.

Each program account has different requirements, so ensure your business is registered appropriately for tax compliance and reporting purposes.

Useful IRS Links:

Manage Changes to Your Employer Identification Number

If your business changes in any way, such as changing its legal name, structure, or the programs it participates in, you must notify the IRS to update your EIN and related accounts.

Types of Changes You Need to Report:

  • Changing the legal name of your business.
  • Changing your business structure (e.g., from a sole proprietorship to a corporation).
  • Updating contact information or adding/removing IRS program accounts (e.g., adding payroll tax registration).

To report changes, you can either update your business information online through your IRS online account or contact the IRS directly.

How to Report Changes:

  1. Step 1: Log in to your IRS online account or use the IRS’s online service for business changes.
  2. Step 2: Provide the necessary details about the changes to your business.
  3. Step 3: Submit the changes and await confirmation from the IRS.

Manage Changes to Your EIN