How do I get an employer identification number (EIN) for my organization? You can apply for an EIN online, by fax, by mail. International applicants may apply by phone. See the instructions for Form SS-4, Application for Employer I.D. Number PDF, for further details. Third parties can receive an EIN on a client's behalf by completing the Third Party Designee section and obtaining the client's signature on Form SS-4. This avoids having to file a Form 2848, Power of Attorney or Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization to get an EIN for their client. Note: Don't apply for an EIN until your organization is legally formed. Nearly all organizations are subject to automatic revocation of their tax-exempt status if they fail to file a required return or notice for three consecutive years. When you apply for an EIN, we presume you're legally formed and the clock starts running on this three-year period.
