Federal EIN for tax filings

A Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) is basically the Social Security Number for your business. An EIN is a type of federal taxpayer ID number that the IRS uses to identify a business, and it must be included on all federal business tax filings.

Banks typically require an EIN in order to open a business bank account. Your business may also need to provide an EIN to third-party service providers for invoicing purposes.

Essential for new businesses and for conversions

Obtaining an EIN is one of the first steps most business owners take after incorporation or formation. Any business that has employees (including sole proprietorships) must obtain an EIN. Corporations, partnerships, and most LLCs also need an EIN, even if there are no employees.

If you plan on converting a sole proprietorship or general partnership to a corporation or LLC, you cannot reuse an existing federal tax ID number (EIN). You must obtain a new one.

Get your EIN online with BizFilings

  • BizFilings obtains your Federal Tax ID Number (EIN) from the IRS on behalf of your business. This EIN filing service is included in our Popular and Premium Service packages or can be added to the Basic Incorporation Services package. EIN obtainment can also be purchased as a stand-alone service.
  • Turn-around. The typical turn-around time for EIN service is 2-3 days after we receive approval of your incorporation filing from the state. *
  • Available online. Once BizFilings receives your EIN from the IRS, it will be made available within our Online Status Center and emailed to you.

* The IRS may require additional information, which may lengthen the time to getting your EIN. We will contact you if this happens.

Easy online ordering

We make getting a Federal Tax ID Number (EIN) for your business easy. Just fill out our online questionnaire, where we will ask for -

  • Basic information about the business
  • Your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)*
  • A physical U.S. address (no P.O. boxes)

* BizFilings does not assist with form preparation or the obtainment of the ITIN, but you can download Form W-7 to complete and provide to the IRS.

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State tax ID numbers

In addition to the federal EIN, some states also require companies to have a state tax identification number. With our Premium Incorporation Service, BizFilings provides you with the appropriate state form for states that require a state tax ID.

Resources:
State LLC and Corporation guides
Steps to take after incorporation

Frequently asked questions
  • What is the difference between an EIN and a federal tax ID number?

    An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a type of federal tax ID numberissued by the IRS. This unique, nine-digit, business identification number is also referred to as a “federal EIN” or “FEIN”.

    An EIN must be included on all federal tax filings the business makes. An EIN is required if your business has employees, and it is a general requirement for LLCs and corporations (whether they have employees or not). Banks usually require an EIN to open a business bank account.

    Related: What is an EIN (federal tax ID number)?

  • Can I reuse the Federal Tax ID Number/Federal EIN from my sole proprietorship?
    The IRS requires that you get a new EIN when there is a change of business structure. If you wish to convert your sole proprietorship or general partnership to a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation, you must obtain a new EIN for the business.
  • Does an LLC or corporation need an EIN?

    LLCs and corporations are generally required to obtain a federal EIN. Single-member LLCs (LLCs with just one owner) are not required to obtain an EIN unless they have employees or file excise tax returns.

    Note: Your LLC or corporation may also be required to obtain a state tax ID number.

    Related: Do I need an EIN for my LLC?

  • How do I apply for a federal EIN?

    Businesses apply for a federal EIN by preparing Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form SS-4 and filing it with the IRS. BizFilings can assist with the obtainment of your company's EIN number from the IRS on your behalf. Simply complete our Federal Tax ID EIN online order form.

  • Do I need to file tax paperwork with my state?

    Some states also require a State Tax Identification Number. BizFilings can help obtain a State Tax ID Number in states that require one for all business entities. Form preparation for a State Tax ID Number is included in our Complete Incorporation Service in these states, and can be added to the Basic and Standard Incorporation Services. To learn if your state requires a separate number, visit our state guides.

  • How do I obtain an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)?

    You must have an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) in order to apply for an EIN. To obtain an ITIN from the IRS, complete and mail IRS Form W-7.

  • How can I look up a company's EIN?

    To find the EIN of a publicly traded company, you can use the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's EDGAR database. Simply enter the company name in the "Company and Person Lookup" search field and review its most recent Form 10-Q or Form 10-K filing.

Obtain a Federal Tax ID

$79

As a stand alone service, or is included in our Complete Incorporation Service package.
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