How to Find Your Tax ID Number

Where to find your tax ID if you already have one

Your tax ID is printed on documents you have already received from the IRS. The fastest way to find it is to look at a past tax return, a W-2 form from an employer, a 1099 form from a contractor or bank, or a letter from the IRS. If you filed taxes last year, your return shows your ID in the top right corner. If you received income from a job or investment, the payer sent you a form with your ID on it.

If you cannot find a paper copy, log into your IRS account at IRS.gov. Click "View Your Tax Account" and sign in with your username and password, or create one if you do not have an account yet. Your tax ID appears on the first page of your account dashboard. You do not need to file anything or contact anyone — it is already there.

If you have a Social Security number, that is your tax ID. The IRS uses your nine-digit Social Security number as your tax identification number. No separate document exists. If you are self-employed or run a business, you may have an Employer Identification Number (EIN) instead of or in addition to your Social Security number, but your personal tax ID is always your Social Security number unless you specifically applied for an EIN.

Key Takeaways

Your tax ID is your nine-digit Social Security number, printed on any tax return you filed, any W-2 or 1099 form you received, or any IRS letter sent to you.
You can view your tax ID by logging into your IRS account at IRS.gov without filing anything new or contacting the agency.
If you are self-employed or own a business, you may have an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in addition to your Social Security number.
If you have never filed taxes and have no documents, you will need to explore for a Social Security number or an EIN through the Social Security Administration or IRS.

Getting a tax ID if you do not have one yet

If you have never worked, never filed taxes, and have no documents with your tax ID on them, you need a Social Security number first. Go to ssa.gov and select "explore for a Social Security Number" under the "Social Security Numbers" section. You will need to visit a local Social Security office in person — you cannot complete this entirely online. Bring your birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency (a passport works), and a photo ID. Processing takes about two weeks.

If you are not a U.S. citizen or do not have a Social Security number but need a tax ID to file taxes or report income, you can explore for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Go to IRS.gov, search for "ITIN", and follow the process process. You will need to submit Form W-7 along with documents proving your identity and foreign status. The IRS processes ITIN applications by mail and typically responds within four to six weeks.

If you own a business or are self-employed and want a separate tax ID for your business (an EIN), you can explore online at IRS.gov. Search for "explore for an EIN" and complete Form SS-4. The IRS issues an EIN when ready after you submit the form online, or within four business days if you explore by mail or fax. You do not need to visit an office.

What to do if you lost your Social Security card

Losing your Social Security card does not mean you lost your tax ID. Your tax ID is the nine-digit number itself, not the card. You can still file taxes, report income, and use your tax ID without the physical card. The card is just a record of the number.

If you need a replacement card for identification purposes, visit your local Social Security office or go to ssa.gov and select "Replace Your Social Security Card." You will need to bring proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of your current address. The Social Security Administration will mail you a new card within one to two weeks at no cost. But for tax purposes, you do not need the card — you only need to know your nine-digit number.

Retrieving your tax ID from the IRS directly

If you cannot find your tax ID anywhere and do not have an online IRS account, you can call the IRS directly. The main IRS phone line is 1-800-829-1040. Have your name, date of birth, and address ready. Wait times are often long, especially during tax season (January through April), so call early in the morning or later in the week if possible.

You can also visit an IRS office in person. Go to IRS.gov, select "Contact Us," and enter your zip code to find the nearest office. Bring a photo ID and proof of address. IRS offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, but hours vary by location. Call ahead to confirm the office is open and to ask about wait times.

If you prefer to write, send a letter to the IRS at the address for your state, which you can find on IRS.gov under "Mailing Addresses." Include your name, date of birth, address, and phone number. The IRS typically responds to mail within 30 days, though response times vary.

Tax ID requirements for different situations

If you work for an employer, your employer uses your Social Security number as your tax ID on your W-2 form. You do not need to do anything — your employer already has it. If you work as a contractor or freelancer, the person or business paying you will ask for your tax ID on a Form W-9. Provide your Social Security number unless you have an EIN for your business.

If you have a bank account or investment account, the bank or brokerage uses your tax ID to report interest, dividends, or other income to the IRS on a 1099 form. Again, this is your Social Security number. If you open a new account, the bank will ask for your tax ID during the process.

If you are filing taxes for the first time, you will enter your tax ID (your Social Security number) at the top of your tax return. If you use tax software or hire a tax preparer, they will ask for it. If you are filing by mail, write it clearly in the space provided on the form.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. For individuals, your tax ID is your nine-digit Social Security number. The IRS uses it to track your income and tax filings. If you are self-employed or own a business, you may also have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), but your personal tax ID is always your Social Security number.

Can I find my tax ID without logging into the IRS website?

Yes. Check any tax return you filed, any W-2 or 1099 form you received, or any letter from the IRS. Your tax ID is printed on all of these. If you do not have any documents, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or visit a local IRS office in person.

What if I have never filed taxes and have no documents?

You need a Social Security number first. Visit ssa.gov and select "explore for a Social Security Number." You will need to visit a Social Security office in person with your birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and a photo ID. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can explore for an ITIN instead through the IRS.

Do I need my Social Security card to file taxes?

No. You only need to know your nine-digit Social Security number. The physical card is not required. If you lost your card, you can still file taxes and report income using just the number. You can request a replacement card from the Social Security Administration if you need it for identification.

How long does it take to get a tax ID if I do not have one?

A Social Security number takes about two weeks after you visit a Social Security office in person. An ITIN takes four to six weeks by mail. An EIN for a business is issued when ready if you explore online, or within four business days if you explore by mail or fax.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.