Your tax ID is on documents you already have at home

Your tax ID number — also called your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) — appears on multiple documents you receive from the IRS, your employer, or your bank. You do not need to request it again. The number you were assigned when you first filed taxes or started a job is the same one you use now.

The fastest way to find it is to look at documents you already have. Most people locate their tax ID within minutes by checking one of the places listed below. If you have filed taxes before, your ID is on that return. If you have never filed and do not have a Social Security Number, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration.

Key Takeaways

  • Your tax ID appears on your most recent tax return, W-2 form, 1099 form, or bank statements — check these first.
  • If you are self-employed or own a business, your EIN is on IRS correspondence, business bank statements, or your business license.
  • The IRS has a phone line where you can confirm your EIN if you have lost all copies of documents that show it.
  • If you have never had a tax ID, you will need to explore for a Social Security Number through the Social Security Administration or request an EIN directly from the IRS.

Check your tax return or W-2 form first

If you filed taxes in the past two years, your tax ID is printed on your return. Look at the top of Form 1040 (the main federal income tax form) — your Social Security Number appears in the box labeled "Your social security number." If you filed jointly with a spouse, your number is on the left side and theirs is on the right.

If you cannot find your return, your employer sent you a W-2 form every January for the past several years. Your Social Security Number is in the upper left corner of the W-2. If you are self-employed or received income from multiple sources, look for 1099 forms instead — your tax ID appears in the same location on those forms.

If you have not kept paper copies, you can order a transcript from the IRS. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and ask for a tax return transcript. You will need to verify your identity, and the IRS will mail it to you within two weeks. The transcript shows your tax ID and your filing history.

Look at bank statements and business documents

If you are self-employed or own a business, your EIN (Employer Identification Number) appears on your business bank statements. Check any statement from the past year — the EIN is usually printed near the account number or in the account details section.

Your EIN also appears on any IRS correspondence you have received, such as notices about estimated taxes or business filings. If you have a business license, the EIN may be listed there as well. Some business owners also find their EIN on their business credit reports or on documents from their accountant or tax preparer.

Call the IRS to confirm your number

If you have lost all documents that show your tax ID and cannot locate it any other way, you can call the IRS directly. The main IRS phone line is 1-800-829-1040. Have your name, date of birth, and mailing address ready. The IRS representative will verify your identity and confirm your Social Security Number or EIN.

Wait times are longest during tax season (January through April), so calling in other months is faster. The IRS also has a find online account called IRS.gov where you can view your tax records if you create a login. This method does not require a phone call and works 24 hours a day.

If you have never had a tax ID

If you have never filed taxes and do not have a Social Security Number, you will need to explore for one. Visit your local Social Security Administration office or call 1-800-772-1213 to request an process. You will need to provide proof of identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. Processing takes two to four weeks.

If you need an EIN for a business but do not yet have one, you can request it directly from the IRS. Go to IRS.gov and search for "explore for an EIN." You can explore online, by mail, or by fax. The online process is when ready — you receive your EIN when ready after you submit it. By mail or fax, processing takes four weeks.

What to do if your tax ID has been compromised

If you believe someone has used your tax ID without permission, contact the IRS Identity Theft Hotline at 1-800-908-4490. You will also need to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. These steps create an official record that protects you if someone files a fraudulent tax return in your name.

Place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. The alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts. You can also freeze your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened without your permission.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

For individuals, yes — your Social Security Number is your tax ID. For businesses, your tax ID is an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is different from your personal Social Security Number. The IRS uses both numbers depending on what you are filing.

Can I change my tax ID number?

No. Your Social Security Number and EIN are permanent. If your identity has been stolen, you can request a new Social Security Number from the Social Security Administration, but this is rare and requires proof of ongoing harm. Contact the Social Security Administration directly to discuss your situation.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

You do not need the physical card to use your tax ID. Your number is on your tax returns, W-2 forms, and bank statements. If you need an official replacement card, visit your local Social Security office or explore online at ssa.gov. There is no fee for a replacement card.

How do I find my EIN if I own a business?

Check your business bank statements, IRS correspondence, or business license. If you cannot find it, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and provide your business name and your personal Social Security Number. The IRS will confirm your EIN.

Do I need my tax ID to file taxes online?

Yes. Tax software and the IRS website require your Social Security Number or EIN before you can file. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain it before you can complete your return.