What Is an EIN and Why Do You Need One?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Think of it as a Social Security Number for your business. It's formatted as XX-XXXXXXX.
Even though it's called an "Employer" Identification Number, you don't need employees to get one. Many single-member LLC owners get an EIN for reasons beyond hiring.
What Is Form SS-4?
IRS Form SS-4, "Application for Employer Identification Number," is the form you use to apply for an EIN. Whether you apply online, by fax, by mail, or by phone, you're providing the same information that's on Form SS-4.
For online applications, you don't actually submit a paper SS-4—the online system collects the same information. However, having a completed SS-4 ready makes the online process faster since you'll have all the answers prepared.
Pro Tip: Prepare First
Before starting your online EIN application, use our SS-4 generator to fill out the form. This ensures you have all the information ready, and gives you a PDF record of what you submitted.
4 Ways to Apply for an EIN
The fastest and easiest method. Apply directly on the IRS website or use a service likeEIN National Filing for guided assistance.
✓ Pros:
- • EIN issued immediately
- • Available M-F, 7am-10pm ET
- • Free through IRS
✗ Cons:
- • Requires SSN or ITIN
- • Limited hours
- • Session times out after 15 min
Complete Form SS-4 and fax it to the appropriate IRS fax number based on your state. The IRS will fax your EIN back to you.
Fax Numbers:
• (855) 641-6935 — If your principal business is in one of the 50 states or DC
Mail your completed Form SS-4 to the IRS. This is the slowest option but works if you can't use online or fax.
Mailing Address:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Only available for applicants with no legal residence, principal place of business, or principal office in the U.S.
Phone Number: 267-941-1099 (Not toll-free)
Hours: 6am-11pm ET, Monday-Friday
Step-by-Step: Applying Online
Here's exactly what to expect when applying for your EIN online:
1Identify Your Entity Type
Select "Limited Liability Company (LLC)" from the list of entity types. The system will ask follow-up questions about the number of members and how the LLC is taxed.
2Answer LLC-Specific Questions
For a single-member LLC, you'll indicate:
- • Number of members: 1
- • State where LLC was organized
- • Whether you elected to be taxed as a corporation (most select "No")
3Select Reason for Applying
Common reasons for single-member LLCs:
- • "Started a new business" — Most common choice
- • "Banking purposes" — If that's your main reason
- • "Hired employees" — If you're getting an EIN to hire
4Enter Responsible Party Information
As the sole owner of your LLC, you are the "responsible party." Enter your full legal name, SSN (or ITIN), and title (typically "Owner" or "Member").
5Provide Business Details
Enter your LLC's information:
- • Legal name of LLC (as registered with the state)
- • Trade name/DBA if different
- • Business address
- • Mailing address (if different)
- • County
6Describe Your Business Activity
Select the category that best describes your business (e.g., "Professional Services," "Retail," "Construction") and provide a brief description of your specific activity.
7Review and Submit
Double-check all information for accuracy. Once you submit, you'll receive your EIN immediately on screen. You can also download or print your confirmation letter (CP 575).
Get your EIN today
Apply online through the IRS (free) or use a filing service for guided help.
Form SS-4 Line-by-Line for Single-Member LLCs
If you're applying by fax or mail (or just want to prepare), here's how to complete each section of Form SS-4:
| Line | What to Enter |
|---|---|
| Line 1 | Legal name of your LLC (e.g., "Smith Consulting LLC") |
| Line 2 | Trade name/DBA if different from Line 1 (or leave blank) |
| Line 3 | Name of responsible party (your name as sole owner) |
| Line 4a-b | Mailing address (street, city, state, ZIP) |
| Line 5a-b | Street address if different from mailing address |
| Line 6 | County and state where LLC's principal business is located |
| Line 7a | Responsible party's SSN (or ITIN) |
| Line 8a | Check "LLC" (Limited Liability Company) |
| Line 8b | Enter "1" for number of LLC members |
| Line 8c | If organized in a foreign country, enter country name |
| Line 9a | Check "Started new business" or applicable reason |
| Line 10 | Date business started or acquired |
| Line 11 | Closing month of accounting year (usually December = "12") |
| Line 12 | Expected number of employees in first 12 months (can be 0) |
| Line 13 | First date wages paid (or N/A if no employees) |
| Line 14 | Check box indicating highest number of employees expected |
| Line 15 | Check if first wages include agricultural employees |
| Line 16 | Check boxes for type of taxes you'll pay (if applicable) |
| Line 17 | Principal activity description (e.g., "consulting services") |
| Line 18 | Products or services (e.g., "web development services") |
Common EIN Application Mistakes
Using LLC Name for Responsible Party
The responsible party must be an individual with an SSN or ITIN—not the LLC itself. As the sole member, enter your personal name and SSN.
Selecting Wrong Entity Type
Make sure to select "LLC" not "Sole Proprietor" even if you're a single-member LLC. They're legally different entities even though they may be taxed similarly.
Not Saving Confirmation
After receiving your EIN online, immediately save or print your confirmation notice (CP 575). You can't retrieve it later from the IRS website, and you'll need proof of your EIN for banking and other purposes.
Applying Before LLC Is Formed
Your LLC must be legally formed (filed with your state) before you can apply for an EIN. The IRS may ask for your LLC's formation date.
After You Get Your EIN
Once you have your EIN, here's what to do next:
Open a Business Bank Account
Take your EIN confirmation letter to your bank to open a business checking account.
Update Your W-9
Use your EIN instead of SSN on W-9 forms for clients.
Keep Records
Store your CP 575 confirmation letter safely. You may need it for loans, contracts, or IRS correspondence.
Set Up Payroll (If Hiring)
If you're hiring employees, use your EIN to register for payroll taxes andcreate paystubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do after getting your EIN
Related Resources
Explore more paystub solutions for your specific needs
Create your SS-4 form to prepare for your EIN application.
Use your new EIN on W-9 forms for clients.
Create W-9 forms with your EIN for client onboarding.
Issue 1099s to contractors using your business EIN.
Guide to completing W-2 forms when you hire employees.
Create paystubs for employees once you start hiring.