<aside> What’s this about? An Employer Identification Number (EIN) — also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number — is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS and used to identify an organization.

What do I need to do? Apply for your EIN online through the IRS.

Contents

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Regulator guidance

• IRS: Do you need an EIN?
• IRS: Get an employer identification number
• IRS: State government websites </aside>

Why you need an EIN

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to identify a business entity.

Generally, businesses need an EIN in order to:

• Open a bank account. You cannot open a business bank account for most forms of business without an EIN.
• Apply for credit in the name of the business. Many banks require an EIN for your business when you apply for a credit card or line of credit.
• Engage an employee or Engage a contractor. The federal government requires businesses to have an EIN if they hire an employee, contractor or withhold taxes on income paid to a non-resident alien. Your EIN is used for federal and state payroll tax reports and payments.
• Apply for business licenses and permits. Use your EIN when applying for business licenses, permits and other requirements.
• File forms with the government. Your business must have an EIN when filing tax returns for employment, excise, or alcohol, tobacco and firearms.

Eligibility & application process

You may apply for an EIN online if your principal business is located in the US or its territories.

The person applying online must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, EIN).

You may apply for an EIN in various ways, including online. This is a free option provided by the Internal Revenue Service and you can get your EIN immediately. You must check with your state to confirm whether you need a state number or charter.

The application will require you to:

1. Select your organization type (in our case: Corporation)
2. Provide a reason for requesting an EIN (e.g. you’re starting an organization, hiring employees for the first time, opening a bank account, etc.)
3. Authenticate your personal information (e.g. SSN)
4. Share your business location (and mailing address)
5. Share business information (including its name, county and state of registration, and date of formation)

• EINs for hybrid structures
• EINs if your board members aren’t in the US
• Getting an EIN as rapidly as possible

Other federal registrations

Besides obtaining your EIN, or federal tax number, you may be required to register with other federal agencies.

For example:

• Trademarks: If you want to trademark your organization or service name, file with the United States Patent and Trademark office once you’ve formed your organization.

• Tax-exempt status: If you want tax-exempt status for a nonprofit corporation, Establish tax exemption with the IRS.

• Should I register a trademark?

< Incorporate your organization