What an EIN is
An Employer Identification Number is a federal tax identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service to identify businesses and certain other entities. Some businesses need one because of their structure, employees, or tax filings; others may obtain one for practical reasons such as banking.
What an EIN is not
- It is not a state entity filing.
- It is not a business licence.
- It is not a sales tax permit.
- It is not proof that a business may operate in a city or regulated industry.
- It does not replace a Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number for every purpose.
Advertisement
Apply through the IRS
The IRS states that an EIN can be obtained free directly from the agency. Be cautious with search results and paid services that make a free federal application look like a required commercial purchase.
Open the official IRS EIN page
Sequence matters
When forming an entity, use the exact legal name and responsible-party information required by the IRS. If ownership or structure changes later, check the IRS guidance on whether a new EIN is required rather than assuming the old number follows every change.