How to Find Your EIN Number: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

How to Find Your EIN Number: A Complete Guide

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a crucial identifier for businesses in the United States, similar to how individuals use a Social Security Number (SSN). It is assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and is required for filing taxes, opening a business bank account, and applying for various licenses or permits. If you’ve forgotten or lost your EIN, don’t worry—finding it is easier than you think. In this article, we will guide you through the process of locating your EIN, whether you’re a business owner or a tax professional helping clients.

1. What is an EIN and Why Do You Need It?

Before we dive into the methods of finding your EIN, let’s briefly clarify what it is and why it’s essential. The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique 9-digit number that the IRS assigns to businesses for identification purposes. It is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN). EINs are used by:

• Business owners for tax filings and payments.
• Corporations and partnerships to report income and expenses.
• Sole proprietors to hire employees or open business bank accounts.
• Nonprofits to apply for tax-exempt status and grants.

If you’re running a business, your EIN is an important piece of information that will come up during tax season or when you are filling out paperwork for loans, permits, or other business activities.

2. Where Can I Find My EIN Number?

There are several ways to find your EIN number. Depending on your situation, some methods may be quicker than others.

A. Check Your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575)

When you first receive your EIN, the IRS will send you a confirmation letter, also known as CP 575, by mail. This letter contains your EIN and other important information about your business.

• How to find it: Locate your CP 575 letter. It should have been sent to the address you provided on your EIN application. If you can't find it, consider checking any physical or digital records you may have.

• What to do if it’s lost: If you’ve misplaced this letter, don’t worry—you can request a copy from the IRS.

B. Review Your Previous Tax Returns

Another way to locate your EIN is by reviewing your previous tax returns, especially if your business has filed corporate tax returns in the past.

• Where to look: The EIN is typically listed on business tax forms such as Form 1120 (U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return), Form 1065 (U.S. Return of Partnership Income), and other business tax filings.

• What if you can’t find your return? You can also check any other official correspondence from the IRS regarding your business taxes, as your EIN will often appear there as well.

C. Search Your Business Documents

If you can’t find your EIN confirmation letter or tax returns, you may be able to locate it in other business documents. This could include:

• Business bank account documents: If you’ve opened a business account, the EIN will likely be listed on your business bank account application or statements.
• State filings: Your EIN might also appear in your state’s records. If you’ve registered your business with your state or filed documents such as Articles of Incorporation or a partnership agreement, your EIN may be recorded there.

D. Use the IRS Online EIN Verification Tool

If you’ve already applied for an EIN but can’t find the documentation, you may be able to use the IRS online EIN lookup tool. Unfortunately, the IRS doesn’t offer a public EIN lookup service for individual businesses, but you can request a replacement or find your EIN through other means (see below).

E. Contact the IRS Directly

If none of the above methods work, you can always contact the IRS directly for help. The IRS can assist in locating your EIN if you’ve lost it or cannot find it in your records.

• How to contact the IRS:

  • Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. Be prepared to provide information about your business, such as the legal name, address, and other identifying details.
  • Note that the IRS is available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time.

• What to expect: After verifying your identity, the IRS will provide your EIN over the phone. You may also request a written confirmation if needed.

F. Check Your Payroll Provider or Accountant’s Records

If you’re using an accountant or payroll service to handle your business finances, they may have a record of your EIN. They can help you locate your number, especially if you’ve submitted payroll forms or filed taxes through them.

• How to access: Reach out to your accountant or payroll service provider and ask them for assistance in finding your EIN. They should be able to provide you with the necessary information quickly.

3. What If I Don’t Have an EIN Yet?

If you’re just starting your business or you’re a sole proprietor and haven’t applied for an EIN, it’s important to apply for one as soon as possible. You can apply for an EIN directly with the IRS in several ways:

• Online: The easiest way to apply for an EIN is through the IRS website. The application process is free and only takes about 10 minutes.
• By mail or fax: You can also complete Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) and submit it via fax or mail.
• By phone: International applicants can apply for an EIN by calling the IRS at 267-941-1099.

After submitting your application, the IRS will send you an EIN confirmation letter (CP 575), which will be your official record of the EIN.

4. What If I Need an EIN for a New Business?

If you need an EIN for a new business venture, the process is relatively simple. Ensure that you have all necessary business details handy before applying, such as your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, etc.), your business name, and your address. You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website, and you’ll receive your EIN instantly after completing the application.

5. Tips for Keeping Your EIN Secure

Your EIN is a sensitive piece of information and should be handled with care to protect your business from identity theft. Here are a few tips:

• Keep records secure: Store your EIN confirmation letter and other important documents in a safe place.
• Avoid sharing your EIN unnecessarily: Only share your EIN when it’s absolutely necessary, such as with the IRS, financial institutions, or other trusted entities.
• Monitor your credit: Keep an eye on your business’s credit reports to identify any suspicious activity.

Conclusion: Finding Your EIN Is Simple and Straightforward

If you’ve lost your EIN or can’t find it, there are several ways to recover or locate it, including reviewing your tax documents, checking business filings, and contacting the IRS. Remember, your EIN is crucial for managing your business taxes, applying for business loans, and conducting other official business activities. Whether you’re a new business owner or just need to retrieve an old number, the process is manageable, and help is available if you run into any roadblocks.

By keeping your EIN secure and organized, you’ll avoid any potential setbacks when it comes to managing your business.