Overview of EIN
An EIN is needed to pay taxes if you have employees or partners. An LLC needs an EIN if it has employees or files certain tax forms. When you have your EIN, you’ll need to use it when filing your business taxes, opening a business bank account, and hiring employees.
Applying for an EIN
Applying online is the fastest way to get an EIN. You can get the number immediately, and it takes about 4 days by fax. By mail, it takes 4 weeks. The IRS will never email an EIN letter. Call them to request one.
- International applicants must call 267-941-1099.
- If you prefer, you can fax a completed Form SS-4 to the service center for your state, and they will respond with a return fax in about one week.
You should apply for an EIN early enough to have your number when you need to file a return or make a deposit. If you don’t have your EIN by the time a return is due, write "Applied for" and the date you applied in the space shown for the number.
That is because the EIN number can be immediately downloaded after you finish the application in PDF format. You may also choose to have a hard copy letter with your EIN number mailed to you.
It is free to set up an EIN number on your own with the IRS. The IRS EIN application does not require any payment details whatsoever, and you will receive your EIN quickly after you complete the application and verification process.
What’s Next After Application
Check with the IRS if you don’t get your EIN when expected. This can speed things up. Applying online takes less than 15 minutes. After applying, you’ll get your EIN number in about 4 weeks. By mail or fax, it may take up to 8 weeks. When applying, you’ll need to provide your business name and address, type of business, and more.