How to Get an EIN Online: Free IRS Application

Starting a business is exciting, but navigating the paperwork can feel overwhelming. One of the first essential steps you’ll need to take is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. The good news? You can complete this process entirely online, for free, in just a few minutes.

What You’ll Accomplish

By following this guide, you’ll successfully obtain your EIN directly from the IRS at no cost. You’ll have your number immediately upon completion, allowing you to open business bank accounts, hire employees, and handle tax obligations without delay.

Who This Guide Is For

This step-by-step tutorial is designed for:

• New business owners forming LLCs, corporations, or partnerships
• Sole proprietors who want to separate personal and business finances
• Existing businesses that need a new EIN due to structural changes
• Anyone who wants to avoid paying unnecessary third-party fees

What You’ll Need

Before starting the application, ensure you have:

• A reliable internet connection
• 15-20 minutes of uninterrupted time
• All required business information (detailed in the Requirements section)
• The legal authority to apply for the EIN on behalf of the business

Before You Start

Prerequisites

To apply for an EIN online, you must meet these IRS requirements:

• Your business must be located in the United States or U.S. territories
• You must have a valid Social Security Number, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or existing EIN
• You can only apply for one EIN per day per responsible party

Preparation Steps

1. Verify your business structure – Ensure you’ve properly formed your LLC, corporation, or other entity with your state before applying
2. Designate the responsible party – This person must have authority to act on behalf of the business
3. Clear your schedule – The IRS system times out after 15 minutes of inactivity
4. Use a supported browser – Ensure you’re using an updated version of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge

Information to Gather

Collect all necessary documents and information beforehand to avoid delays or timeouts during the application process.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Access the IRS EIN Application

Navigate directly to the official IRS website at `irs.gov` and search for “Apply for EIN Online.” Click on the official application link. Important: Only use the official IRS website to avoid scams and unnecessary fees.

Step 2: Review Eligibility Requirements

Read through the eligibility checklist carefully. Confirm that:

• You haven’t already applied for an EIN today
• Your business is located in the U.S. or territories
• You have the authority to apply for the business

Click “Begin Application” to proceed.

Step 3: Select Your Entity Type

Choose the option that best describes your business structure:

• Sole Proprietorship
• LLC (Limited Liability Company)
• Corporation
• Partnership
• Non-profit Organization
• Estate
• Trust
• Other (with additional options)

Tip: If you’re unsure about your business structure, consult with a business formation expert before proceeding.

Step 4: Provide Responsible Party Information

Enter complete details for the responsible party:

• Full legal name (as it appears on tax documents)
• Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
• Address (cannot be a P.O. Box)
• Phone number

The responsible party must be an individual with authority to control, manage, or direct the entity.

Step 5: Enter Business Information

Provide comprehensive business details:

• Business legal name (exactly as filed with your state)
• Trade name (if different from legal name)
• Business address (physical location, not a P.O. Box)
• Mailing address (if different from business address)
• County and state where business is located

Step 6: Specify Business Details

Complete additional business information:

• Reason for applying (started new business, hired employees, banking purposes, etc.)
• Business start date (when you began or will begin business operations)
• Closing month of accounting year (typically December for calendar year)
• Principal business activity (describe what your business does)
• Number of employees expected in the next 12 months

Step 7: Review and Submit

Carefully review all entered information for accuracy. Once submitted, you cannot make changes online – corrections require paper forms and significant delays.

Verify:

• All names are spelled correctly
• Addresses are complete and accurate
• Business structure matches your state filings
• Contact information is current

Click “Submit” to complete your application.

Step 8: Receive Your EIN

Upon successful submission, you’ll immediately receive your EIN. The confirmation page will display:

• Your new 9-digit EIN (format: XX-XXXXXXX)
• Business name and address
• Responsible party information

Important: Save or print this confirmation page immediately. This is your official EIN assignment notice.

Requirements

Documents Needed

• State business formation documents (articles of incorporation, articles of organization, etc.)
• Personal identification for the responsible party
• Operating agreement or bylaws (if applicable)

Information Required

• Business legal name: Must match state registration exactly
• Business address: Physical location where business operates
• Responsible party details: Individual with business authority
• Business activity description: Clear explanation of what your business does
• Structure type: LLC, Corporation, Partnership, etc.
• State and date of formation: When and where you formed the business

State Considerations

• Ensure your business is properly registered with your state before applying
• Some states require additional tax registrations after obtaining an EIN
• Check if your state has specific naming requirements that might affect your federal application

Tips for Success

Expert Recommendations

• Apply early in the day – IRS systems are typically faster during morning hours
• Use exact legal names – Match your state business registration documents precisely
• Save everything – Keep copies of all confirmation pages and reference numbers
• Double-check addresses – Incorrect addresses cause delays in receiving important tax documents

Time-Saving Tips

• Gather all information before starting the application
• Use a desktop or laptop computer rather than mobile devices
• Have a backup browser ready in case of technical issues
• Write down your confirmation number immediately

Quality Improvements

• Provide detailed business activity descriptions to avoid follow-up questions
• Use consistent address formatting throughout the application
• Verify all phone numbers and email addresses are current
• Consider business growth when estimating future employee counts

Common Mistakes

What to Avoid

• Using third-party services when the IRS application is free
• Applying multiple times if you don’t receive immediate confirmation
• Using P.O. Boxes for business addresses
• Mismatching business names between state and federal applications
• Leaving required fields blank or incomplete

How to Fix Errors

If you discover errors after submission:

• Minor corrections: Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933
• Major changes: File Form SS-4 by mail or fax
• Name changes: Provide documentation supporting the correction

Troubleshooting

Application won’t submit: Clear browser cache and cookies, try a different browser
Session timeout: Gather all information before starting fresh application
EIN not received: Check confirmation page, wait 24 hours before contacting IRS
System unavailable: IRS online system operates Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 10 PM EST

Next Steps

Immediate Actions

1. Save your EIN confirmation in multiple locations
2. Update business records with your new EIN
3. Open business bank accounts using your EIN
4. Register for state taxes if required in your jurisdiction

Related Processes

• Set up business accounting and bookkeeping systems
• Register for required state and local taxes
• Obtain necessary business licenses and permits
• Consider business insurance options

Ongoing Requirements

• Use your EIN on all tax filings and business documents
• File required annual reports with your state
• Maintain accurate business records
• Update business information with relevant agencies when changes occur

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to get an EIN online?
A: The online application process takes about 15 minutes to complete, and you receive your EIN immediately upon successful submission during business hours (Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 10 PM EST).

Q: Does it cost money to get an EIN from the IRS?
A: No, obtaining an EIN directly from the IRS is completely free. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge fees for this free service.

Q: Can I apply for an EIN if my business isn’t formed yet?
A: You can apply up to 12 months before you plan to start business operations, but it’s generally better to wait until after you’ve completed state business formation requirements.

Q: What if I already have an EIN but formed a new business entity?
A: Each business entity needs its own EIN. If you change your business structure (like converting from sole proprietorship to LLC), you’ll need to apply for a new EIN.

Q: Can I change information after receiving my EIN?
A: Some changes can be made by calling the IRS, but significant changes may require filing additional paperwork. It’s crucial to enter accurate information during the initial application.

Conclusion

Obtaining your EIN online is a straightforward process that puts you one step closer to launching your business successfully. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll have your federal tax identification number in minutes, not weeks.

Remember, getting your EIN is just the beginning of your business journey. Proper business formation, ongoing compliance, and professional guidance are essential for long-term success.

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