What's an EIN — and do you need one?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a federal tax ID for your business — think of it like a Social Security number, but for your business instead of you.
You'll want one if you: form an LLC, corporation, or partnership; hire employees; or want to open a business bank account. Even as a solo operator, getting an EIN means you can stop handing out your personal SSN — a smart move for privacy and looking professional.
Get your info ready
Have these handy: your legal name and SSN or ITIN (you're the "responsible party"), your business name, your address, and a short answer for what your business does. If you've already formed an LLC, have that info too — but you don't need an LLC first to get an EIN.
Go to the real IRS site — irs.gov
Only use the official site: irs.gov. Search "apply for an EIN online" or go to irs.gov/ein. The online application is the fastest way — you get your number immediately at the end.
If a site isn't irs.gov and it's asking for a fee, close it. That's not the IRS.
Know the hours, and set aside 15 minutes
The online tool runs on weekdays during daytime/evening hours (Eastern time). It times out after about 15 minutes of inactivity and has to be finished in one sitting — so do it when you've got a clear few minutes.
Answer the questions
It asks your entity type (sole proprietor, LLC, etc.), why you're applying, and the responsible party's info. They're plain questions — no tricks, no catches.
Get your number — and save the letter
At the end, your EIN appears on screen right away. Download and save (or print) the confirmation letter immediately — that's your proof. Keep it somewhere safe; banks and agencies will ask for it.
Start using it
Open a business bank account, set up to take card payments, and put your EIN on invoices and tax forms instead of your SSN. Now your business money and your personal money stay separate — the way it should be from day one.
Good to know
- One per day: the IRS allows one EIN per responsible party per day, so handle them one at a time.
- No computer? Other options: you can also apply by mail or fax using IRS Form SS-4 — it just takes weeks instead of minutes.
- It's always free: the IRS never charges for an EIN. Any "fee" means you're on the wrong site.
- Pair it with a business bank account to truly separate business from personal — that protects you and makes tax time easier.
Got your EIN? You're official.
Now put your business where your neighbors can find it.
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