Tax Identification Numbers
A tax identification number (TIN) is required for tax purposes. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues TINs.
- TINs have 9-12 digits. Applying for a TIN is free.
- You must provide your TIN when filing taxes. A TIN identifies you to the IRS.
Types of TINs
There are three main TINs:
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
TINs Details
- An ITIN is for nonresident and resident aliens and others who can’t get a Social Security Number.
- To get an ITIN, complete Form W-7 substantiating foreign status and identity.
- A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a nine-digit IRS number (plus a three-digit branch code for businesses). The first nine digits are the TIN proper.
- The first digit identifies the taxpayer type.
EIN Information
- An employer identification number (EIN) identifies businesses for tax purposes, like a Social Security number for an individual.
- If you lack an EIN by mid-April, still file taxes using Form 4852. Sole proprietors without employees often don’t need EINs.
Additional Details
- A Federal Tax Identification Number refers to the nine-digit IRS number.
- States can issue tax IDs too.
- Should I use my EIN or SSN? The IRS uses the EIN to ID taxpayers. EINs are for businesses like corporations and partnerships. Most sole proprietors can use SSNs instead.