Before You Apply
If you begin the process of applying and you don’t know answers to some of the sections, you may have to begin over again. It’s best to print out a copy of the application, on IRS Form SS-4, and answer all the questions on this form. If you decide you need help completing the EIN, you can get an attorney to help, or find other help to complete the EIN, including the trickiest part, designating your business legal type.
Filing as a Responsible Party
You will be filing for the EIN as the "responsible party" so you will need to be sure you have the authority to make this filing. The IRS has set up the designation of “responsible party” to make sure someone with authority to do business for a company is completing the form. A responsible party should be “the individual or entity that controls, manages, or directs the entity and the disposition of the entity’s funds and assets.” For a small business, a responsible party is a general partner, owner, or principal officer of the company.
How to Apply for An Employer ID Number
You can apply for an EIN in one of four ways:
Online
Many people use the online EIN application form, called the EIN Assistant, between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., Eastern time, Monday through Friday. It’s best to have the application completed and all the questions answered before you go online, because you will have to begin over if you have to stop to figure out the responses. To file online, you must meet some qualifications: You must have a valid U.S. ID number (like a social security number), When you have completed the form, the information is validated, and you can receive your EIN immediately. The online method is available for businesses located in the U.S. or its territories. You must have a valid taxpayer identification number before applying online.
Phone
The option to apply for an EIN over the phone is available to international applicants only. International applicants are business owners who are eligible to receive an EIN but have no legal residence, principal place of business, or principal office or agency in the U.S. The person making the call must be authorized to receive the EIN and should be able to answer any questions regarding the application form SS-4.
Fax
Fax the completed SS-4 application form to your state fax number. If you include your fax number, you will receive your EIN by fax within four business days.
Mail your completed SS-4 Form to the appropriate IRS office. You will receive your EIN by mail within four to five weeks.
Beware of Fake EIN Application Websites
If you search online for “apply for EIN” you will find lots of sites that look like they are the IRS, but may in fact be fake EIN application sites. They will start you on the application process, but only when you get ready to file will they ask for money. Don’t waste your time or money. The EIN application process is free, relatively painless, and quick.
