Applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) has never been easier. You have a number of options available, and the best part is that you don’t have to wait in lines and fill in endless forms since it’s now possible to do it online.
This is how you can obtain your EIN quickly and without a hassle.
Apply Online
Nobody likes to spend his time waiting in lines and filling in forms. The IRS has made it possible to obtain your federal tax identification number by applying online on their official site. The service is provided by the IRS, and it’s free.
Before you go to the Internet EIN link given on the ‘How to Apply for EIN’ article on the IRS official site, make sure you meet the following requirements:
- Your primary business has to be located in the United States or U.S. territories.
- In order to apply online, you must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number.
Also, make sure you complete the online application in one session. Don’t leave the application page, as you will not be able to save and return later.
Fill-in the SS-4 Form
If you are a sole owner of your business, you will need only one EIN, and need to fill in one SS-4 form.
In case you’re applying for your EIN by fax, mail or phone, you will need to submit a properly filled SS-4 in PDF format.
Make sure that the data you entered is correct, and that it contains all the information required. Double check before you send your SS-4 form.
Apply by Fax or Mail
Applying by fax, mail or phone is the only way you can get your EIN if you don’t have a legal residence, primary business or office agency on United States territory.
Fax your completed SS-4 form to Internal Revenue Service fax address. You can find the fax address by following this link.
It’s a good idea to provide your fax number because you will receive a fax with your EIN within four business days.
If you’re applying by mail, follow the link provided above, and obtain the correct mailing address.
Apply by Phone
For applicants without a legal address or business in the United States or U.S. territories, there is an option of applying by telephone. You will find the telephone number and all necessary instructions on the official site of the IRS.
Have in mind that it’s required that you must be authorized to receive the EIN and answer questions from the SS-4 form.
You may call from 6:00 to 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time (EST), but remember that it’s not a toll-free number.
When not to Apply for a new EIN
While there are some instances when it’s required to file for a new Employer Identification Number (such as when your business ownership structure has changed), there are cases when you don’t need a new EIN.
If you are a sole proprietor, these include:
- Changing the name of your business.
- Changing your location.
- You own multiple businesses.
