The Fast Answer: Apply online at IRS.gov/ein. It takes about 10–15 minutes and you receive your EIN immediately. It is completely free. Avoid any website charging you for this service.
What Is an EIN?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) — also called a Federal Tax Identification Number or FEIN — is a unique 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for federal tax purposes. The format is XX-XXXXXXX.
Think of it as your business's version of a Social Security Number. Just as individuals use their SSN for banking and taxes, businesses use their EIN.
You Need an EIN To:
- Open a business bank account
- Apply for business credit cards
- Hire employees and run payroll
- File federal and state business taxes
- Apply for business licenses and permits
- Set up a Keogh or Solo 401(k) retirement plan
- Work with vendors who require a W-9
Privacy Benefits:
Using an EIN instead of your personal SSN on business forms protects you from identity theft. Without an EIN, your Social Security Number appears on:
- 1099 forms sent to you by clients
- W-9 forms submitted to vendors
- Business bank account applications
Do You Actually Need an EIN?
| Your Situation | EIN Required? | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| Single-member LLC, no employees | No (technically) | Yes — banks require it |
| Multi-member LLC | Yes | Yes |
| LLC with employees | Yes | Yes |
| LLC electing S-Corp or C-Corp taxation | Yes | Yes |
| LLC with a Keogh or Solo 401(k) | Yes | Yes |
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Go to IRS.gov/ein
Navigate to the official IRS EIN online application. Do not use third-party websites — the IRS service is free.
Select your entity type
Choose "Limited Liability Company" as your business structure and select the number of members (1 for single-member, 2+ for multi-member).
Provide your information
Enter your LLC's legal name, address, state of formation, and the responsible party's name and SSN or ITIN.
Select the reason for applying
Choose "Started a new business" for a newly formed LLC, or the appropriate reason for your situation.
Confirm and submit
Review your information carefully. Once submitted, the application cannot be edited — contact the IRS directly if corrections are needed.
Receive your EIN instantly
Your 9-digit EIN is displayed immediately on screen and can be downloaded as a PDF. Save this document — you'll need it repeatedly.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid EIN Scam Sites
Many websites charge $50–$300 to "obtain your EIN." They simply fill out the same free IRS form on your behalf. The official IRS application at IRS.gov/ein is free, takes 10–15 minutes, and provides your EIN instantly. Never pay a third party for this.
Application Methods Compared
Online
Response: Instant
Mon–Fri 7am–10pm ET
Best option for most
By Fax (Form SS-4)
Response: 4 business days
Any time
International applicants without SSN
By Mail (Form SS-4)
Response: 4–5 weeks
Any time
Last resort only
What to Do After Getting Your EIN
Open a business bank account
Your EIN is required by almost every bank to open a dedicated business checking account — a critical step for protecting your liability shield.
Apply for a business credit card
Use your EIN to apply for a business credit card to start building business credit history separately from your personal credit.
Update your operating agreement
Record your EIN in your LLC's operating agreement and other formation documents for completeness.
Set up payroll if you have employees
Your EIN is required to register for payroll taxes with the IRS and your state. Use a payroll service to automate withholding and filings.
Provide to clients on W-9 forms
When clients ask for your tax information to issue a 1099, provide your EIN instead of your personal SSN for better privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to get an EIN?
Yes. The IRS provides EINs for free. Apply directly at IRS.gov/ein. Never pay a third-party service for something that is completely free.
Can I use my SSN instead of an EIN?
Single-member LLC owners without employees can use their SSN on tax returns. However, for banking and client 1099s, using an EIN is strongly recommended for privacy and professionalism.
What if I lose my EIN?
Call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 (Mon–Fri, 7am–7pm local time). They can provide your EIN after verifying your identity. You can also find it on past tax filings or bank documents.
Do I need a new EIN if I add members to my LLC?
Generally no. However, if your LLC changes from single-member to multi-member (or vice versa), consult a tax professional — the tax classification may change.
Can a foreign national get an EIN for a US LLC?
Yes. If you don't have a US SSN or ITIN, apply by calling the IRS International line at 267-941-1099 or fax/mail Form SS-4 with a notation that you don't have a US taxpayer ID.