Employee ID Number

Recommended by IRS

Employer Identification Number

Information about Employer Identification Numbers (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number. An EIN is used to identify a business entity.

Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) online
Information about how to apply online for an Employer Identification Number.
Do you need a new EIN?
Generally, businesses need a new EIN when their ownership or structure has changed.

Get an employer identification number

Use this tool to get an EIN directly from the IRS in minutes for free. Answer questions, submit the application and, if approved, we’ll issue your EIN immediately online.
General Information
Small Businesses

Employer identification number

Find out if you need an employer identification number (EIN). Get one online, free from the IRS. Don’t pay for an EIN.
General Information
Small Businesses

Lost or misplaced your EIN?

Find out what you need to do if you have lost or misplaced your Employer Identification Number (EIN).
General Information
Small Businesses

When to get a new EIN

Generally, businesses need a new Employer Identification Number (EIN) when their ownership or structure has changed. Determine if you need a new EIN.
General Information
Small Businesses

How to Apply for an EIN

Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) online, or by fax, mail or, for international applicants, by phone.
General Information
Small Businesses

Online EIN: Frequently asked questions

If you are unfamiliar with the online Employer Identification Number (EIN) application process, review these questions and answers.
General Information
Small Businesses

Do you need an EIN?

Determine if you need an employer identification number (EIN) by answering these questions.
General Information
Small Businesses

Valid EINs

An employer identification number (EIN) is used to identify a business entity. You can get an EIN for your business, tax-exempt organization or other entity free directly from the IRS in minutes. We assign the first 2 digits of your EIN based on the IRS campus that processed your application or if you applied online.
General Information
Small Businesses

Position holder and EIN questions

Position Holder and EIN Questions
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Small Businesses

If you no longer need your EIN

If you receive an EIN but decide you don’t need it, we can deactivate your EIN.
General Information
Small Businesses