Employer Identification Number (EIN) Application
DIY Step-by-Step Guide(No agent or lawyer)
1) Go to the official IRS EIN application portal:https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-onlineCost: Free. The IRS does not charge a fee for issuing an EIN.
2) Review the eligibility page and click “Apply Online Now.”Online filing is available Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST.
3) Choose your entity type (LLC, Corporation, Partnership, Nonprofit, or Sole Proprietorship).If your business is not yet formed at the state level, wait until your State's Secretary of State filing is approved before applying.
4) Complete the form with accurate business and responsible party details:● Legal business name (as filed with State's SOS).● Address and contact information.● SSN, ITIN, or EIN of the responsible party.● Business start date and primary activity type.
5) Review and submit your application.● You’ll receive your EIN confirmation letter (Form CP 575) immediately online.● Save or print the letter — banks and agencies will require this document.
6) If you are a foreign owner or non-U.S. resident (without an SSN or ITIN):
Complete IRS Form SS-4 manually:https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf
● Write “Foreign” on line 7b (SSN/ITIN section).Fax to (855) 641-6935 or mail to:● Internal Revenue Service, EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999 ● Processing time: up to 4 weeks for mail submissions. ● Cost: Free (IRS does not charge a filing fee).
Common Mistakes People Make
● Entering a different name than what’s registered with the Secretary of State.● Submitting multiple EIN applications (IRS issues only one EIN per entity).● Using an invalid SSN or ITIN for the responsible party.● Applying before your entity is officially approved at the state level.
Documents & Information Needed
● Legal business name (must match your formation documents).● Business address (U.S. or foreign).● Entity type: LLC, Corporation, Partnership, Nonprofit, or Sole Proprietorship.● Responsible party’s name and SSN/ITIN (for identification with the IRS).● Business start date and primary activity.● Number of employees (if applicable).
Let Victoria Handle It for You
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Agency Founder, Victoria Duchovny