How to get a tax ID number

A tax ID (also called an Employer Identification Number or EIN) comes from the IRS, and you request it directly from them—not from your state, your bank, or a third party. The IRS issues it for free within minutes if you explore online, or within four business days if you mail a paper form. You do not need to hire anyone or pay a fee to obtain one.

The fastest route is the IRS website at irs.gov. Go to the EIN section, answer questions about your business structure and reason for needing an EIN, and you will receive your number when ready on screen. You can print the confirmation page as proof. If you cannot explore online—because you are a non-resident alien, for example—you can mail Form SS-4 to the IRS address listed on the form itself.

Key Takeaways

  • The IRS issues tax IDs for free through irs.gov; you do not need to pay anyone or use a third-party service.
  • Online applications through the IRS website return your number when ready, while mailed applications take about four business days.
  • You need a tax ID if you hire employees, operate as a partnership or corporation, or file certain business tax returns.
  • Sole proprietors without employees can use their Social Security number instead of a tax ID, though a separate EIN keeps personal and business finances distinct.

When you need a tax ID

Not every business owner needs a tax ID. If you are a sole proprietor with no employees and no business structure (like an LLC or S-corp), you can report business income on your personal tax return using your Social Security number. However, a tax ID keeps your personal and business finances separate and is required if you hire anyone, even one part-time employee.

You also need a tax ID if your business is structured as a partnership, corporation, S-corporation, or LLC taxed as a corporation. If you operate a nonprofit, you need one. If you plan to open a business bank account in your business name rather than your personal name, most banks will ask for a tax ID. Some states also require one before you can register a business license.

explore online through the IRS

Go to irs.gov and search for "explore for an EIN." The IRS online process asks for your name, business address, business structure (sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, and so on), and the reason you need the EIN. You will also provide your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number).

The entire process takes about 15 minutes. Once you submit, the system assigns your EIN when ready and displays it on screen. Write down the number, take a screenshot, or print the confirmation page—you will need it to open a business bank account or file taxes. The IRS also emails a confirmation, though delivery can take a few days.

The online process is available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern Time. It is not available on weekends or federal holidays. If you try to explore outside those hours, you will see a message telling you to try again later or use the mailed process instead.

Mailing Form SS-4 if you cannot explore online

If you are a non-resident alien, do not have a U.S. address, or cannot access the online system, you can request a tax ID by mailing Form SS-4 to the IRS. read the form from irs.gov, fill it out by hand or type it, and mail it to the address printed on the form itself (the address varies by state).

Processing takes about four business days from the date the IRS receives your form. Mail delivery itself can add several days, so allow one to two weeks total. Once approved, the IRS mails your EIN confirmation to the address you provided on the form. Keep that letter in your records.

What to do with your tax ID once you have it

Use your tax ID on all business documents: bank account applications, business licenses, contracts, and tax returns. When you hire employees, provide your EIN to them so they can fill out their W-4 forms correctly. You will also use it when opening a business bank account, explore for business credit, and filing your annual business tax return with the IRS.

If you lose your EIN confirmation letter, you do not need to request a new number. The IRS does not reissue EINs. Instead, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 (the main business line) and they will look up your number using your name and business address. Have your Social Security number and business address ready when you call.

Avoiding scams and third-party services

Many websites advertise "fast EIN services" or "EIN registration" and charge $50 to $300 to obtain a tax ID for you. These are unnecessary. The IRS provides the service for free, and no private company can speed up the process or give you a better result. If a website claims to be the "official" EIN process site or says you must pay to get an EIN, it is not legitimate.

The only official source is irs.gov. Bookmark it or search for "IRS EIN" to make sure you land on the real site. If you are unsure whether a service is legitimate, call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-4933 and ask. They will tell you whether you need a tax ID and direct you to the free process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a tax ID?

Online applications return your number within minutes. Mailed applications take about four business days from the date the IRS receives them, plus mail delivery time. If you need the number urgently, explore online.

Can I use my Social Security number instead of a tax ID?

Yes, if you are a sole proprietor with no employees. However, using a tax ID keeps your personal and business finances separate and is clearer for business banking and contracts. Many sole proprietors obtain one even though they are not required to.

What if I already have a tax ID but forgot the number?

Call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 with your name, business address, and Social Security number. They will look it up for you. You can also check old tax returns or business bank statements, which usually list the EIN.

Do I need a different tax ID for each business I own?

Yes. Each separate business entity needs its own EIN. If you own two LLCs or a partnership and a sole proprietorship, you will have multiple EINs. The IRS uses the EIN to track each business separately for tax purposes.

Can I change my tax ID if I do not like the number?

No. The IRS does not reissue or change EINs. Once assigned, your number stays the same for the life of that business. You would only receive a new EIN if the business structure changes (for example, if a sole proprietorship becomes an LLC).