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Last Updated: November 10, 2022 by the TRUiC Team An Employer Identification Number (EIN), is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify your business. All business EINs are public information. We show you how to do an EIN Lookup for your own business or other businesses.
What is an EIN Number?An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Federal Tax Identification Number (FTIN), is like a Social Security number (SSN) for your business. The unique nine-digit EIN number allows the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify businesses for tax reporting. Business owners will usually need an EIN when they:
When Does Your Business Need an EIN Number?If any of the following statements are true, you'll need to get an EIN:
When Does a Sole Proprietorship Need an EIN Number?Starting a Business? Learn about EINs and more on our free state-by-state How to Start a Business guides. Start a Business
How to Do an EIN Lookup OnlineYou can locate a lost or misplaced EIN by the following
If you are trying to find the EIN of business other than yours there are a few options.
Paid Method of Finding an EIN For a Business Try purchasing a business credit report from any of the major credit agencies. Are You Forming an LLC? We will lead you through the simple steps for forming an LLC in our free guides—from naming your business to getting an EIN. Form an LLC Get a Free EINThe quickest and simplest way to get a free EIN is to apply for one through the EIN Assistant on the IRS website. You must form your business before getting an EIN. The IRS will ask for your business formation date and legal business name. You can also apply for an EIN by fax or mail by completing Form SS-4. If you are submitting by fax, send your EIN application to fax number (855) 641-6935. If applying by mail, submit to Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999. Frequently Asked Questions: EIN Number LookupDo I need an EIN if I’m self-employed?You don’t need an EIN if you’re self-employed; you can simply use your Social Security number. Some people who are self-employed choose to apply for an EIN instead of using their Social Security number to reduce the risk of identity theft; it’s less likely for someone to break into your accounts when you keep business finances and personal finances separate. I have a sole proprietorship with a DBA (doing business as or fictitious name). Do I Need an EIN?Having a DBA doesn’t impact whether or not you are required to have an EIN for your sole proprietorship. The same rules apply to a sole proprietorship with a DBA as apply to a sole proprietorship without a DBA. Per the IRS, “A sole proprietor without employees and who doesn’t file any excise or pension plan tax returns doesn’t need an EIN.” Once you hire employees or file excise or pension plan tax returns, you will immediately require an EIN. Is there a difference between an EIN and a TIN?No, there isn't a difference between an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). Both refer to the nine-digit number issued by the IRS to identify your business. Is there a difference between an EIN and a FEIN?No, there is not a difference between an EIN and a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN). A FEIN can also be referred to as a Federal Tax Identification Number. Resources for Starting a BusinessRelated ArticlesCan I look up my EIN number online?The IRS doesn't provide a public database you can use to look up EIN numbers for your own company or others. However, you can look at your EIN confirmation letter or other places your number may be recorded, including previously filed tax returns or old financing documents.
How do I check my EIN number?Follow these simple steps at any time: Before starting, locate your order number from your application. From the GovDocFiling website, click the “Check Order Status” link on the right. Enter your order number and email address in the form and click submit.
Can you look up someones EIN number?If the company is publicly traded and registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), you can use the SEC's EDGAR system to look up such a company's EIN for free. You can do an EIN lookup for nonprofit organizations on Guidestar.
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