How to locate a company’s EIN

As a company manager, you are responsible for ensuring that your business is in compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. One such requirement is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN). An EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to businesses operating within the United States.

Importance of an EIN

An EIN is essential for any business that operates within the United States. Here are some reasons why:

• An EIN is required by law: All businesses operating in the United States must have an EIN to open a bank account, apply for loans, and file taxes.

• An EIN helps you establish your business as a separate legal entity: An EIN helps you to establish your business as a separate legal entity from its owners. This protects the owners’ personal assets in case of any legal issues.

• An EIN allows you to hire employees: An EIN is required to open an account with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and to pay taxes for your employees.

• An EIN can help you obtain credit: Some lenders require an EIN to consider your business for a loan or line of credit.

  How to Obtain an EIN

  There are several ways to obtain an EIN. Here are the most common methods:

  1. Online Application: You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website. This is the easiest and fastest way to obtain an EIN. You will need to provide basic information about your business, such as its name, address, and date of incorporation.

  2. Fax Application: If you prefer to apply by fax, you can download the EIN application form from the IRS website and send it to the appropriate office. The processing time for a fax application is usually faster than a mailed application.

  3. Mail Application: You can also apply for an EIN by mailing the completed EIN application form to the appropriate office. Processing times for mail applications can vary depending on the location of the office and the volume of applications received.

     

  4. Professional Services: If you do not have time or resources to apply for an EIN yourself, you can hire a professional service to do it for you. These services typically charge a fee and can provide guidance on how to complete the application.

     How to Locate a Company’s EIN

     As a company manager, there may be times when you need to locate a company’s EIN, such as when applying for loans or credit, or when filing taxes. Here are some ways to locate a company’s EIN:

  5. IRS Website: You can use the IRS website to search for a company’s EIN by entering its name and state of incorporation. The IRS website also provides tools to help you verify a company’s EIN, such as checking if it is currently in good standing with the IRS.

  6. State Filing Agency: If the company you are trying to locate is registered in your state, you can contact your state filing agency to obtain its EIN. Most states maintain records of businesses that have been incorporated within their borders.

  7. Business Records: If you have access to the company’s business records, such as bank statements or tax returns, you may be able to locate its EIN. An EIN is typically included in these types of documents.

  8. Professional Services: If you are unable to locate a company’s EIN through other means, you can hire a professional service to help you find it. These services typically charge a fee and can provide guidance on how to obtain the information.

     Frequently Asked Questions

     Here are some frequently asked questions about obtaining an EIN:

     Q: Is there a fee for obtaining an EIN?

     A: There is no fee for obtaining an EIN from the IRS. However, some professional services may charge a fee to help you apply for an EIN.

     Q: Do I need an EIN if my business is a sole proprietorship or partnership?

     A: No, you do not need an EIN if your business is a sole proprietorship or partnership. An EIN is required for businesses that are incorporated or have employees.

     Q: Can I use my personal taxpayer identification number (SSN) as my EIN?

     A: No, you cannot use your personal SSN as your EIN. An EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to businesses operating within the United States.

     Q: How long does an EIN last?

     A: An EIN does not expire.