Topic no 755, Employer identification number EIN How to apply Internal Revenue Service
There are several types of TINs, including Social Security numbers for individuals and EINs for businesses. The person calling must be authorized to receive the EIN and can answer the questions on IRS Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number. It’s helpful to fill out the form before calling because the IRS employee will need that information. You can receive your EIN by phone and use it immediately to file a tax return or make a payment.
When you apply for an EIN, we presume you’re legally formed and the clock starts running on this three-year period. You may also apply by telephone if your organization was formed outside the U.S. or U.S. territories. Make sure that you select church or church-controlled organization or other nonprofit organization as the type of entity.
Apply and receive your EIN
Starting a business can feel complex, but the good news is the IRS SS-4 Form is straightforward and will secure the all-important EIN for your business. This isn’t just paperwork; it’s concrete progress toward launching your business. Once you obtain your EIN from the IRS, it’s effective immediately and you can start using it right away. In most cases, your EIN will remain with you throughout the course of your business. When you do have a choice (as in a Sole Proprietorship with no employees), the advantages of using the EIN typically outweigh the disadvantages. Personal protection alone is a strong reason to use an EIN over an SSN.
Don’t forget to check if you have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, another EIN) before starting. The easiest way to apply is through the IRS EIN Assistant page. Just follow the listed steps by adding the required information to your IRS EIN form; just make sure to do it in one sitting, as the session will expire after 15 minutes of inactivity. As a business owner, you’ll need an EIN to open a business bank account, apply for business licenses and file your tax returns.
How to Use Your EIN
Now that you know all about EIN numbers, and have applied for your own Federal Tax ID number you are ready to start your business. I know that tax research can seem dry and monotonous, but it is critical to ensuring the protection and profitability of your small business. If you’ve read through this article, you have already done the more due diligence that many of your counterparts… and your competition.
For more information or to find an LITC near you, see the LITC page on the TAS website or Publication 4134, Low Income Taxpayer Clinic List. Even if purpose of ein number you already have an EIN, certain business events require a new one. Generally, businesses need a new EIN when their ownership or structure changes.
What is IRS Form SS-4? A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an EIN
Securing an EIN is a necessary step to establishing your business and will ultimately help in keeping your regulatory, legal and financial matters in order. You will not be required to obtain a new EIN if any of the following statement is true. You will not be required to obtain a new EIN if any of the following statements are true. You will be required to obtain a new EIN if any of the following statements are true.
- But if you’re only operating the other business as a division of your current business, then you won’t need a new EIN.
- Whatever you call it, an EIN is a unique nine-digit number that serves to identify your business for tax purposes.
- However, with these advantages come specific responsibilities, like getting an employer identification number (EIN).
- Do not contact the IRS; all inquiries must be directed to FinCEN.
- Opinions expressed on the pages of this website belong to the author and do not represent the views of companies whose products and services are being reviewed.
- You can also apply by fax, but you must include the appropriate fax-TIN number on your paperwork, which is subject to change without notice.
The responsible party is usually an individual—such as a member or manager—who controls, manages, or directs the LLC and its funds. You can open a business bank account without an EIN in some cases, usually if you’re a sole proprietor or single-member LLC. But many financial institutions require an EIN to open a business account. Having an EIN can be particularly helpful for starting a business if you don’t have a U.S.
Within a few days you will receive by mail your EFTPS enrollment confirmation, as well as a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and complete instructions for using EFTPS. You will need to wait until you receive your EFTPS information in the mail before you can make a payment electronically. Once you receive your EFTPS confirmation package, you can begin making EFTPS payments.