TaxProProofIRS PTIN registry lookup

How to Get an EIN — Free, 5 Minutes

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a free federal tax ID from the IRS. You need one to open a business bank account, hire employees, or file business taxes. Don't pay anyone for this — it's free directly from the IRS.

💡 Getting an EIN is just one step. Need LLC formation + EIN + Operating Agreement done together? We handle the full setup — CPA reviewed, no back-and-forth with the IRS.See LLC packages →
$0
Cost
5 min
Online
Instant
You get it immediately

When Do You Need an EIN?

  • ✅ You formed an LLC or corporation
  • ✅ You want to open a business bank account
  • ✅ You plan to hire employees
  • ✅ You want to avoid giving clients your SSN (use EIN on W-9 instead)
  • ✅ You have a partnership or multi-member LLC
  • ❌ You're a sole proprietor with no employees and don't need a business bank account (optional)

Steps to Apply

  1. 1

    Go to IRS EIN Assistant

    IRS.gov EIN Application → Available Mon-Fri, 7am-10pm Eastern.

  2. 2

    Select Your Entity Type

    Choose "Limited Liability Company" for an LLC, "Sole Proprietor" for no entity, etc.

  3. 3

    Enter Your Information

    Legal name, address, responsible party SSN, reason for applying, start date, number of employees expected.

  4. 4

    Receive Your EIN Immediately

    You'll get your EIN on screen instantly. Save/print the confirmation. The official letter (CP 575) arrives by mail in 4-6 weeks, but you can use the number immediately.

What You'll Need to Apply

  • • Your SSN or ITIN (for the "responsible party")
  • • Your LLC name (must match state filing exactly)
  • • Business address
  • • State where your LLC is filed
  • • Date business started (or will start)
  • • Type of business activity
  • • Expected number of employees in next 12 months

Tips

  • 💡 Apply after your LLC is approved by the state (you need the exact legal name)
  • 💡 The "responsible party" is the person who controls the LLC — usually you
  • 💡 If you select "0 employees" expected, you can still hire later
  • 💡 You only get one EIN per "responsible party" per day — don't make a mistake
  • 💡 If the online tool is down (weekends, evenings), you can fax Form SS-4 instead

Want the full setup done for you?

We handle LLC filing + EIN + Operating Agreement + registered agent coordination as one package. No juggling multiple government sites. CPA-reviewed.

Coming Soon — Full LLC Package $99 + state fees