Guide for Acquiring a Tax Identification Number
Applying for an EIN Online: A Simple Guide
For businesses looking to identify themselves with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a crucial step. Here's a straightforward guide on how to apply for an EIN online through the IRS website.
- Navigate to the official IRS EIN application page by searching "Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)" on the IRS site.
- Click the “Apply Online Now” or “Apply for an EIN” button to begin the application.
- Read the instructions carefully and click “Begin Application.”
- Complete the application form by filling in necessary details such as your entity type (e.g., LLC, Corporation), tax classification, and the responsible party’s Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Submit the form. Once all information is verified and accepted, you will receive your EIN immediately at the end of the online session.
It's important to note that the entire application process online usually takes about 15 minutes. The EIN is issued instantly online after submission. However, if you want to file an electronic tax return, you'll have to wait for about 2 weeks for the EIN to become permanently established in the system.
The online application requires the responsible party to have a valid SSN or ITIN; foreigners without these cannot apply online but can apply by fax, mail, or phone using Form SS-4. Remember, the application is free; beware of any third party charging fees for this service.
In summary, the IRS website provides a straightforward, free, and instantaneous online EIN application tool for eligible applicants with a valid SSN or TIN. The IRS uses federal tax ID numbers, also known as Employer Identification Numbers (EINs), to identify businesses. The person who is submitting the form is typically a responsible party in the business, such as an owner, partner, or principal officer.
[1] IRS.gov. (2021). Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Retrieved from https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein
[2] IRS.gov. (2021). Frequently asked questions on applying for an EIN. Retrieved from https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/frequently-asked-questions-on-applying-for-an-ein
[3] IRS.gov. (2021). EIN Assistant. Retrieved from https://www.irs.gov/ein-assistant
[4] IRS.gov. (2021). EIN Online Application. Retrieved from https://www.irs.gov/ein-online/ein-online.html
[5] IRS.gov. (2021). Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number. Retrieved from https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf
- Managing personal finances efficiently can lead to a better lifestyle, and having an EIN might be beneficial for a home-and-garden business or a freelance computer repair service, as it helps identify your business with the IRS.
- For those who run a small business or a part of the personal-finance sector, understanding the process of applying for an EIN online can be crucial, as it enables you to file electronic tax returns in your business dealings.
- As we strive to improve our lifestyle and reach financial success, it's essential to be aware that certain expenses, like the application for a business EIN, should always remain free, avoiding any potential scams by third parties pretending to offer paid services.
