Where to Find Your Tax ID

Your tax ID is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to you or your business. If you are a sole proprietor or individual, your tax ID is your Social Security number. If you own a business structure like an LLC, corporation, or partnership, you have a separate Employer Identification Number (EIN).

The fastest way to find an existing tax ID is to check documents you already have. For a Social Security number, look at your Social Security card, tax return, W-2 form, or bank statements. For an EIN, check your IRS letter of information, business tax returns, or payroll records.

If you cannot find your number in those places, you can request it directly from the IRS by phone, mail, or online, depending on which type of ID you need.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Social Security number is your tax ID if you are self-employed or file taxes as an individual.
  • An EIN is a separate nine-digit tax ID for businesses, partnerships, and LLCs, and you can request one free from the IRS.
  • The IRS can tell you your Social Security number or EIN by phone, mail, or through their online account portal.
  • You do not need to pay anyone to find or obtain a tax ID — the IRS provides this service at no cost.

Finding Your Social Security Number

If you are an individual filing taxes, your tax ID is your Social Security number. Check your Social Security card first — it shows the nine-digit number in the center. If you do not have the card, look at any recent tax return, W-2 form, 1099 form, or bank statement. These documents all display your Social Security number.

If you have lost your Social Security card and cannot find your number on other documents, contact the Social Security Administration directly. Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to speak with a representative. Have your birth certificate, state ID or passport, and proof of address ready. You can also visit your local Social Security office in person — find the nearest one at ssa.gov/locator.

Finding or Requesting an EIN

If you own a business, you may have an EIN. Check your IRS information letter (the letter you received when you first registered the business), your business tax returns, payroll records, or bank statements. The EIN appears on all of these.

If you need to request a new EIN or cannot find your existing one, the IRS offers three ways to get it. The fastest method is online at irs.gov/ein — you can receive your EIN when ready after completing the process. You can also explore by phone at 1-800-829-4933 (business services line) during business hours, and you will receive your number the same day. By mail, send Form SS-4 to the IRS address for your state, which takes about four weeks.

You do not need to pay a fee or use a third-party service. The IRS assigns EINs at no cost.

Using the IRS Online Account Portal

If you have filed federal taxes before, you can view your tax ID through your IRS online account. Go to irs.gov and select "Sign in to your account." You will need to create a login using your Social Security number, date of birth, and address, or use an existing login from another government site like Login.gov.

Once logged in, you can view your tax transcript, which displays your Social Security number or EIN, filing status, and income information. This method works only if you have already filed a return with the IRS. If you have never filed, you will need to use one of the other methods above.

What to Do If You Cannot Locate Your Tax ID

If you have searched your documents and cannot find your number, contact the IRS directly. For a Social Security number, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. For an EIN, call the IRS business services line at 1-800-829-4933.

Have the following information ready before you call: your legal name, date of birth, address, and any business formation documents if you are looking for an EIN. The representative will verify your identity and provide your number over the phone. If you prefer not to call, you can visit an IRS office in person — find locations at irs.gov/locator.

Protecting Your Tax ID

Once you have located your tax ID, treat it like sensitive financial information. Do not share it with anyone unless they have a legitimate reason — such as your employer, bank, or tax professional. Scammers sometimes pose as IRS agents and ask for tax IDs over the phone or email. The IRS will never contact you first by email, text, or social media.

If you believe someone has used your tax ID fraudulently, report it to the IRS when ready. Call 1-800-829-1040 or visit irs.gov/identity-theft to file a report and learn about next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my Social Security number the same as my tax ID?

Yes, if you are an individual or sole proprietor. Your Social Security number is your tax ID for filing personal income taxes. If you own a business structure like an LLC or corporation, you have a separate EIN in addition to your Social Security number.

How long does it take to get an EIN?

Online applications at irs.gov/ein are processed when ready, and you receive your EIN right away. Phone applications through the IRS business services line (1-800-829-4933) also provide your number the same day. Mail applications using Form SS-4 take about four weeks.

Do I have to pay to get a tax ID?

No. The IRS assigns both Social Security numbers and EINs at no cost. If a website or service charges you to obtain or find a tax ID, it is not an official IRS service.

Can I change my tax ID?

You cannot change your Social Security number unless you have a documented reason like identity theft or religious objection. You can request a new EIN for your business if the business structure changes, but the old EIN remains on file with the IRS.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

You do not need the physical card to use your Social Security number. You can find the number on tax returns, W-2 forms, bank statements, or by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. If you want a replacement card, the Social Security Administration can mail one to you.