How to Get an EIN in 2026: Complete Guide to Form SS-4 and Online Application

Starting a business is exciting — until you hit the paperwork. One of the first questions every new business owner asks is, “Do I need an EIN?” The answer depends on your business structure, whether you have employees, and what you’re trying to accomplish. The good news? Getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in 2026 is faster and easier than ever, thanks to the IRS online application tool that issues your number instantly.

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your business’s Social Security number — a unique 9-digit identifier (like 12-3456789) that the IRS uses to track your business tax obligations. You’ll need it to hire employees, open a business bank account, file business tax returns, and establish business credit. Think of it as the first official step in making your business real.

This guide walks you through everything: when you need an EIN, how to apply online (the fastest method), when to use Form SS-4 instead, and exactly what information you’ll need to have ready.

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Do You Need an EIN?

Not every business needs an EIN immediately. The IRS requires one in specific situations, but many business owners get one even when optional — and for good reasons.

You Must Have an EIN If:

• You have employees (including household employees paid $2,700+ in 2026)
• Your business is a corporation or partnership (regardless of size or employees)
• You’re an LLC with multiple members (treated as a partnership)
• You file employment tax returns (Forms 941, 940, 943, or 944)
• You file excise tax returns (Form 720, 730, 2290, or 11-C)
• You withhold taxes on income paid to a nonresident alien
• You operate a qualified retirement plan (401k, SEP IRA, pension)
• Your business files specific tax returns: Form 1041 (trusts), Form 1042 (withholding on foreign persons), or Form 990 (tax-exempt organizations)
• You’re involved with trusts (except certain grantor-owned trusts), estates, real estate mortgage investment conduits (REMICs), nonprofit organizations, or farmers’ cooperatives

You Don’t Need an EIN (But May Want One) If:

• You’re a sole proprietor with no employees filing Schedule C
• You’re a single-member LLC with no employees or excise tax obligations

Even if not required, many sole proprietors and single-member LLCs get an EIN anyway because:

1. Banks require it — Most banks won’t open a business account without an EIN
2. Protects your SSN — Using an EIN instead of your Social Security number on vendor forms (W-9) reduces identity theft risk
3. Establishes business credit — You’ll need an EIN to build a business credit profile separate from your personal credit
4. Prepares for growth — If you hire employees later, you’ll already have your EIN
5. State requirements — Some states require an EIN for business registration or sales tax permits

Bottom line: If you’re serious about running a business (even as a solo freelancer or single-member LLC), get an EIN. It’s free, takes 5 minutes online, and positions your business professionally.

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How to Get an EIN Online in 2026 (Fastest Method)

The IRS online EIN application is by far the quickest way to get your number — you’ll receive it immediately at the end of the application and can use it right away.

Before You Apply Online

1. Form Your Business Entity First

If you’re creating an LLC, corporation, or partnership, register your business with your state before applying for an EIN. The IRS needs to verify your legal entity name matches your state registration. Sole proprietors don’t need to register with the state first.

2. Have Your Responsible Party’s Tax ID Ready

The “responsible party” is the person who ultimately controls the business. You’ll need their:

• Social Security Number (SSN) — most common for U.S. business owners
• Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) — for foreign individuals without an SSN

If you don’t have an SSN or ITIN, you can’t use the online tool. Use Form SS-4 by fax or mail instead (see later section).

3. Gather Business Information

Have this ready before you start (the application times out after 15 minutes of inactivity):

• Legal business name (as registered with your state, if applicable)
• Trade name / “Doing Business As” (DBA) name, if different
• Business address (physical location, not P.O. box)
• County and state where business is located
• Mailing address (if different from business address)
• Business structure (sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.)
• Reason for applying (starting new business, hired employees, banking purpose, etc.)
• Number of employees expected in the next 12 months
• Date business started
• Closing month of accounting year (usually December for most businesses)
• Principal business activity

Step-by-Step: IRS Online EIN Application

Step 1: Go to the IRS EIN Assistant

Visit IRS.gov/EIN and click “Apply Online Now.” The tool is available Monday–Friday 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. ET, Saturday 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET, and Sunday 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. ET.

Step 2: Select Your Entity Type

Choose your business structure:

• Sole proprietor or single-member LLC
• Partnership
• Corporation (including S corporations)
• Nonprofit organization
• Estate or trust
• Government entity

The application flow changes based on your selection, so choose carefully.

Step 3: Enter Business Information

Provide your business details:

• Legal name (must match state registration for LLCs/corporations)
• Trade name if applicable
• Business address (where you conduct business)
• Mailing address (where you receive IRS mail)

Step 4: Responsible Party Information

Enter the name and SSN/ITIN of the individual who controls the business. This is typically:

• Sole proprietor: You (the owner)
• LLC: Managing member or owner
• Corporation: President, CEO, or principal officer
• Partnership: General partner
• Trust: Grantor, owner, or trustor
• Estate: Executor or administrator

The responsible party must be an individual person (not another business entity), except for government entities.

Step 5: Reason for Applying

Select why you need an EIN:

• Started a new business
• Hired employees
• Banking purposes
• Created a trust
• Changed business structure (incorporated, became a partnership, etc.)
• Purchased an existing business
• Created a pension plan

Step 6: Business Activity Details

Describe your primary business activity (construction, retail, real estate, manufacturing, etc.) and provide more specifics. For example, “Retail – Online e-commerce store selling handmade jewelry.”

Step 7: Employee Information

Enter the number of employees you expect in the next 12 months:

• Agricultural employees
• Household employees
• Other employees (office, retail, contractors treated as employees)

If you have no employees, enter zero. This helps the IRS determine which employment tax forms you’ll need to file.

Step 8: Review and Submit

Double-check all information — you can’t change your legal name or responsible party easily after submission. Click submit.

Step 9: Get Your EIN Immediately

Your EIN will appear on the screen. Print or save the confirmation letter immediately — this is your only proof of the EIN assignment. The IRS will also mail a formal letter (CP 575) within 4-6 weeks, but you can use your EIN right away.

Important Limitations

• One EIN per day: You can only get one EIN per responsible party per day (to prevent fraud)
• U.S. location required: The online tool only works if you have a legal residence, principal place of business, or office in the U.S. or U.S. territories
• No saving progress: You must complete the application in one session (it times out after 15 minutes)

Pro tip: Open a Word doc or text file before you start. Copy all your business details there so you can quickly paste them into the application without timing out.

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When to Use Form SS-4 Instead of the Online Tool

Some applicants can’t use the IRS online EIN application and must submit Form SS-4 instead.

Use Form SS-4 If:

1. You’re an international applicant — Your business is located outside the U.S. and U.S. territories
2. The online tool isn’t working — Technical issues happen, especially during peak filing season
3. You prefer paper documentation — Some business owners want a completed form for their records
4. Your responsible party doesn’t have an SSN or ITIN — Foreign business owners without U.S. tax IDs must use Form SS-4
5. You’re applying on behalf of a client — Third-party designees (accountants, lawyers) often prefer Form SS-4

How to Submit Form SS-4

You have three options for submitting the paper form:

Option 1: Fax (Fastest Paper Method)

Processing time: ~4 business days

Where to fax:

• Domestic applicants (U.S. or territories): 855-641-6935
• International applicants (outside U.S.): 855-215-1627 (U.S. callers) or 304-707-9471 (international callers)

Include your fax number on the form so the IRS can fax your EIN back to you. Fax service is available 24/7.

Option 2: Mail

Processing time: ~4-5 weeks

Where to mail:

Domestic applicants:

Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999

International applicants:

Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN International Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999

To check the status of a mailed application, call 800-829-4933.

Option 3: Phone (International Applicants Only)

Processing time: Instant (during the call)

If you have no legal residence or business location in the U.S., you can call 267-941-1099 (not toll-free) from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. ET, Monday–Friday. An IRS representative will ask you the questions from Form SS-4 over the phone and assign your EIN during the call.

Important: The IRS no longer issues EINs by phone for domestic applicants. Only international applicants can use the phone method.

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Completing Form SS-4: Line-by-Line Guide

If you’re submitting Form SS-4 by fax or mail, here’s exactly what goes on each line.

Section 1: Business Identity

Line 1: Legal Name of Entity

Enter the exact legal name of your business as it appears on your state registration, charter, or incorporation documents.

• Sole proprietors: Use your personal legal name (not your business name). Example: “Jennifer Smith” (not “Jennifer’s Consulting”)
• LLCs: Legal name with “LLC” included. Example: “Smith Consulting LLC”
• Corporations: Include corporate suffix. Example: “Smith Consulting, Inc.” or “Smith Consulting Corp.”
• Partnerships: Legal partnership name from partnership agreement
• Trusts: Name as shown on trust instrument
• Estates: Deceased person’s name followed by “Estate.” Example: “Estate of John Smith”

Line 2: Trade Name of Business

Your “Doing Business As” (DBA) name, if different from legal name. This is the name customers see.

Example: Legal name is “Jennifer Smith” (line 1), but you operate as “Smith Consulting” (line 2).

Leave blank if your trade name is the same as your legal name.

Line 3: Executor, Administrator, Trustee, or “Care of” Name

• Trusts: Enter trustee’s name
• Estates: Enter executor or administrator’s name
• Businesses: Leave blank unless you have a designated person to receive tax mail

Lines 4a-4b: Mailing Address

Where the IRS will mail your EIN confirmation and future correspondence. Can be your home address, business address, or accountant’s address.

Lines 5a-5b: Street Address

Your physical business location (where business is conducted). Leave blank if it’s the same as your mailing address. Don’t use a P.O. box here.

Line 6: County and State Where Business Is Located

Enter the county and state of your primary business location. Example: “Los Angeles County, California”

Lines 7a-7b: Responsible Party

Enter the full name and SSN (or ITIN) of the person who ultimately owns or controls the business. This must be an individual person, not another business entity.

• Sole proprietor: Your name and SSN
• LLC: Managing member’s name and SSN
• Corporation: President or principal officer’s name and SSN
• Partnership: General partner’s name and SSN
• Trust: Grantor, owner, or trustor’s name and SSN
• Estate: Executor or administrator’s name and SSN

Important: Changes to the responsible party must be reported to the IRS within 60 days using Form 8822-B.

Lines 8a-8c: LLC Information (If Applicable)

If your business is an LLC:

• Line 8a: Check “Yes”
• Line 8b: Enter number of LLC members (1 for single-member, 2+ for multi-member)
• Line 8c: If the LLC will be classified as a corporation or S corporation, specify which

Section 2: Business Classification & Details

Line 9a: Type of Entity

Check the box that describes your business. This is critical for determining which tax forms you’ll file.

Common selections:

• Sole proprietor: You own the business individually
• Corporation: C corporation filing Form 1120
• S Corporation: Corporation electing S corp status (must also file Form 2553)
• Partnership: Two or more owners, default treatment for multi-member LLCs
• Limited Liability Company: Enter “Partnership” (multi-member) or “Disregarded entity” (single-member)
• Other nonprofit organization: 501(c)(3) or other tax-exempt entity
• Estate: For deceased person’s estate
• Trust: Various types (revocable, irrevocable, charitable, etc.)

Line 9b: If Corporation, Enter Tax Return to Be Filed

If you checked “Corporation” on line 9a, specify:

• Form 1120 — Standard C corporation
• Form 1120-S — S corporation (you must also file Form 2553 to elect S corp status)

Line 10: Reason for Applying

Check one box explaining why you need an EIN:

• Started new business — You’re launching a new venture (specify type: e-commerce, consulting, restaurant, etc.)
• Hired employees — Your existing business is hiring its first employee
• Banking purpose — You need an EIN to open a business bank account (common for LLCs and sole proprietors)
• Changed type of organization — You incorporated, formed a partnership, or changed structure
• Purchased going business — You bought an existing business
• Created a trust — You established a trust (specify type)
• Created a pension plan — You’re setting up a 401k, SEP IRA, or other qualified plan
• Other — Specify reason (e.g., “Compliance with state requirements”)

Line 11: Date Business Started or Acquired

Enter the date you started the business or acquired it. For trusts, enter the date funded. For estates, enter the date of death.

Line 12: Closing Month of Accounting Year

Select the last month of your tax year. Most businesses choose December (calendar year). Partnerships often must use December unless specific conditions are met. S corporations and personal service corporations also generally must use December unless they establish a business purpose for a different year.

Line 13: Highest Number of Employees Expected

Enter the number of employees (including zero) you expect to hire in the next 12 months in each category:

• Agricultural employees — Farm workers, seasonal harvest workers
• Household employees — Nannies, housekeepers, gardeners (if paid $2,700+ in 2026)
• Other employees — Office, retail, manufacturing, service employees

If you have no employees, write “0” for each category.

Line 14: Do You Want to File Form 944?

Form 944 is an annual employment tax return (instead of quarterly Form 941) for small employers who expect to owe $1,000 or less in employment taxes per year. You generally qualify if you pay $5,000 or less in total wages subject to Social Security, Medicare, and income tax withholding.

• Check “Yes” if you qualify and want to file annually
• Leave blank or check “No” if you want to file Form 941 quarterly (the default for most businesses)

Important: Once you elect Form 944, you must continue filing it annually until the IRS authorizes you to switch back to Form 941.

Line 15: First Date Wages Were Paid

If you have employees, enter the first date you paid (or will pay) wages. If no employees, write “N/A.”

Line 16: Principal Business Activity

Check the box that best describes your primary business activity:

• Construction
• Real estate (agents, property managers, landlords, mortgage REITs)
• Rental & leasing (equipment, vehicles, real estate)
• Manufacturing
• Transportation & warehousing (trucking, delivery, storage)
• Finance & insurance
• Health care & social assistance
• Accommodation & food services (hotels, restaurants, catering)
• Wholesale – agent/broker
• Wholesale – other (distributors buying for resale)
• Retail (stores, e-commerce, vending machines)
• Other (specify in line 17)

Line 17: Specific Business Activity Description

Describe your business in detail. Be specific.

Examples:

• “Residential HVAC installation and repair”
• “Online retail store selling eco-friendly home goods”
• “Independent software development consulting”
• “Residential property management services”
• “Commercial general contractor – office buildings”

Line 18: Has the Entity Ever Applied for an EIN?

• Check “Yes” if you previously applied for an EIN under this legal name
• Check “No” if this is your first time

If yes, the IRS may ask for the previous EIN or why you need a new one.

Third-Party Designee (Optional)

If you want your accountant, lawyer, or another person to receive your EIN and answer questions about Form SS-4, complete this section. The designee’s authority ends once the EIN is assigned.

Signature

You must sign Form SS-4:

• Individuals/sole proprietors: Sign yourself
• Corporations: President, VP, or principal officer
• Partnerships: Partner authorized to act on behalf of the partnership
• Trusts/estates: Trustee, executor, or administrator

Date the form when you sign it.

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Common EIN Questions for Different Business Types

Sole Proprietors

Q: Do I need an EIN if I’m a freelancer with no employees?

A: Not required, but highly recommended. You can use your SSN on IRS forms, but using an EIN protects your personal information and looks more professional. Plus, if you hire even one employee in the future, you’ll need an EIN immediately.

Q: Can I have multiple EINs for different businesses?

A: No. A sole proprietor should only have one EIN regardless of how many businesses you operate under different trade names. However, if you later incorporate or form an LLC, you’ll need a new EIN for the new legal entity.

Single-Member LLCs

Q: Does my single-member LLC need an EIN?

A: Not required if you have no employees and no excise tax obligations. The IRS treats single-member LLCs as “disregarded entities” by default, meaning you report income on your personal Schedule C using your SSN.

However, most banks require an EIN to open a business bank account for an LLC, and having one protects your corporate veil and separates business from personal finances. Recommendation: Get one.

Q: If I get an EIN for my single-member LLC, do I file different tax forms?

A: No. Unless you elect corporate taxation by filing Form 8832 or Form 2553 (S corp), you still file Schedule C with your Form 1040 using your SSN. The EIN is used for employment taxes, bank accounts, and vendor/client W-9 forms.

Multi-Member LLCs

Q: Does a multi-member LLC need an EIN?

A: Yes, always. Multi-member LLCs are treated as partnerships by default, and partnerships must have an EIN. You’ll file Form 1065 (partnership return) annually and issue Schedule K-1s to each member.

Corporations

Q: When do I get an EIN for my corporation?

A: As soon as your corporation is registered with the state. All corporations need an EIN, even if you have no employees or revenue yet. You’ll use it to file Form 1120 (C corporation) or Form 1120-S (S corporation).

Q: Does each subsidiary or division need its own EIN?

A: Yes. Each separate legal entity (corporation) in an affiliated group must have its own EIN. However, divisions or branches of the same corporation use the parent company’s EIN.

S Corporations

Q: How do I get an EIN for an S corporation?

A: First, form your corporation with the state and get an EIN (applying as a “Corporation” intending to file Form 1120-S). Then, within 2 months and 15 days of the start of your tax year, file Form 2553 to elect S corporation status. Your EIN doesn’t change when you elect S corp status — you keep the same number.

Partnerships

Q: Does our partnership need an EIN?

A: Yes, always. All partnerships (including multi-member LLCs) must have an EIN to file Form 1065. Each partner reports their share of income on their personal tax return (Schedule E) using their own SSN.

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When You Need a New EIN (and When You Don’t)

Certain business changes require a new EIN, while others don’t.

You Need a New EIN If:

• You incorporate your sole proprietorship or partnership (new legal entity created)
• Your sole proprietorship becomes a partnership (you take on a partner)
• Your partnership becomes a corporation (entity type changes)
• You purchase or inherit an existing business operated as a sole proprietorship and operate it as a partnership or corporation
• A partnership is terminated because at least 50% of ownership changes hands within 12 months
• You’re a corporation and you’re restructuring (e.g., bankruptcy reorganization)

You Don’t Need a New EIN If:

• You change your business name (file Form 8822-B to update records)
• You change your business address (file Form 8822-B)
• You add or drop partners in an existing partnership (unless 50%+ changes hands)
• You elect or terminate S corporation status (EIN stays the same)
• You file for bankruptcy as an individual sole proprietor (continue using your EIN)
• Your business becomes inactive (you can reuse the EIN if you reactivate later)
• You change your responsible party (file Form 8822-B within 60 days)

Pro tip: If you’re unsure whether you need a new EIN, call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 or consult a tax professional. Using the wrong EIN can create filing headaches.

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How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN?

The timeline depends on your application method:

Application Method	Processing Time	Availability
Online (IRS.gov/EIN)	Instant	U.S. applicants only; limited hours
Fax (Form SS-4)	4 business days	24/7; all applicants
Phone (International)	During call	Mon-Fri 6am-11pm ET; non-U.S. only
Mail (Form SS-4)	4-5 weeks	All applicants

For most U.S. businesses: Use the online tool and get your EIN in 5 minutes.

If you need to file a tax return but haven’t received your EIN yet: Write “Applied For” and the date you applied in the space for the EIN on your return. Don’t use your SSN in place of an EIN.

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What to Do After You Get Your EIN

Your EIN is permanent and doesn’t expire. Here’s how to use it and keep your account in good standing.

1. Save Your EIN Confirmation Letter

When you apply online, print or save the confirmation screen immediately — this is your official proof of EIN assignment. The IRS will mail a formal letter (CP 575) within 4-6 weeks, but many business owners never receive it or misplace it.

2. Give Your EIN to Others

You’ll need to provide your EIN to:

• Banks (to open business accounts)
• Vendors and clients (on Form W-9 for 1099 reporting)
• State tax agencies (for state tax registration)
• Credit bureaus (to establish business credit)
• Payment processors (PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.)

3. Use Your EIN on All Business Tax Forms

Always use your EIN (not your SSN) on:

• Employment tax returns: Forms 941, 940, W-2, W-3
• Business income returns: Forms 1120, 1120-S, 1065
• Excise tax returns: Forms 720, 2290
• Information returns: Forms 1099, 1098, W-2

4. Keep Your EIN Information Current

If you change your business address, responsible party, or business name, file Form 8822-B (Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business). Changes to the responsible party must be reported within 60 days.

5. Don’t Share Your EIN Publicly

While an EIN is less sensitive than your SSN, it’s still private business information. Don’t post it on your website, social media, or public documents unless required by law.

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Common SS-4 and EIN Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Your SSN Instead of Getting an EIN

Many sole proprietors use their SSN for business purposes because they don’t think they need an EIN. Problems with this:

• Every vendor, client, and contractor gets your SSN when they request a W-9
• Banks may refuse to open business accounts
• You can’t hire employees without an EIN
• You risk identity theft

Solution: Get an EIN, even if optional. It’s free and takes 5 minutes.

2. Applying Before Forming Your Entity

If you’re creating an LLC or corporation, register with your state before applying for an EIN. The IRS needs to verify your business name matches state records. If they don’t match, your EIN application may be delayed or rejected.

Solution: File Articles of Organization (LLC) or Articles of Incorporation (Corporation) with your state first. Once approved, apply for your EIN.

3. Not Saving Your EIN Confirmation

The online EIN application doesn’t email or save your results. If you don’t print the confirmation page, you’ll have to wait 4-6 weeks for the CP 575 letter in the mail.

Solution: Immediately print the confirmation page or take a screenshot. Save it to your business files and email it to yourself as backup.

4. Using the Wrong Legal Name

Your legal name on the EIN application must match your state registration exactly. Common errors:

• Using a trade name instead of legal name on line 1
• Forgetting “LLC” or “Inc.” in the name
• Using a nickname instead of legal first name

Solution: Have your state registration certificate in front of you when applying.

5. Selecting the Wrong Entity Type on Line 9a

Choosing the wrong entity type can cause you to file the wrong tax returns. Example mistakes:

• Single-member LLC selecting “Corporation” instead of “Other (disregarded entity)”
• Multi-member LLC selecting “Corporation” instead of “Partnership”
• Sole proprietor selecting “LLC” when they haven’t formed one with the state

Solution: If unsure, consult IRS Publication 583 (Starting a Business) or hire a CPA for guidance.

6. Requesting Multiple EINs by Mistake

Some business owners apply online, then mail Form SS-4, thinking they haven’t heard back. This creates duplicate EIN records.

Solution: Use only one method. The online tool gives instant results. If you fax or mail Form SS-4, wait the full processing time before reapplying.

7. Paying for an “EIN Service”

Third-party websites charge $50-300 to “help” you get an EIN. The IRS online application is always free.

Solution: Go directly to IRS.gov/EIN — never pay for an EIN.

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Special Situations

Getting an EIN for a Trust

Most trusts need an EIN. However, certain grantor trusts where the grantor is also the trustee don’t need a separate EIN — the grantor can use their SSN. These include:

• Revocable living trusts (while grantor is alive)
• Certain revocable trusts

Exception: Even if exempt, you must get an EIN if the trust:

• Has employees
• Files Form 990-T (unrelated business income)
• Is an IRA trust required to file returns

How to apply for a trust EIN:

• Select “Estate or Trust” as entity type
• Enter the trust name exactly as shown on the trust document
• For line 10, check “Created a trust” and specify type (irrevocable trust, charitable trust, special needs trust, etc.)

Getting an EIN for an Estate

An estate is created when someone dies. The estate administrator uses the EIN to file the estate’s tax return (Form 1041) and pay any taxes owed by the estate.

How to apply:

• Select “Estate” as entity type
• Enter “Estate of [Deceased Person’s Name]” on line 1
• Enter the executor or administrator’s name on line 3
• Provide the deceased’s SSN on line 9a
• For line 11, enter the date of death

Getting an EIN for a Nonprofit

Nonprofits, charities, and tax-exempt organizations need an EIN before applying for 501(c)(3) status.

How to apply:

• Select “Other nonprofit organization” on line 9a
• Specify type (educational, religious, charitable, etc.)
• Get your EIN first, then file Form 1023 (or 1023-EZ) or Form 1024 to apply for tax-exempt status

Note: Getting an EIN doesn’t make you tax-exempt. You must separately apply for exemption with Form 1023 or 1024.

Getting an EIN as a Foreign Business Owner

If you’re not a U.S. citizen or resident but are starting a U.S. business, you can still get an EIN.

Options:

1. If you have an ITIN: Use the IRS online tool (enter your ITIN instead of SSN)
2. If you have no U.S. tax ID: Submit Form SS-4 by fax or call 267-941-1099 (for non-U.S. applicants)

On Form SS-4, write “foreign” or “N/A” on line 7b if the responsible party has no SSN or ITIN and is ineligible to obtain one.

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Form SS-4 vs. Online EIN Application: Which Is Better?

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Feature	Online Application	Form SS-4 (Fax/Mail)
Processing time	Instant	4 days (fax) / 4-5 weeks (mail)
Availability	Limited hours (6am-1am ET)	24/7 (fax)
Cost	Free	Free
Who can use	U.S.-based businesses only	Everyone (including international)
Requirements	Responsible party needs SSN or ITIN	Can apply without SSN/ITIN (foreign applicants)
Save progress	No (times out after 15 min)	Yes (complete offline)
Third-party designee	No	Yes (accountant can receive EIN)
Best for	Most U.S. business owners	International applicants, those without SSN/ITIN, third-party filers

My recommendation: Use the online tool if you’re eligible — it’s fast, easy, and you get your EIN instantly. Only use Form SS-4 if you can’t access the online tool or have special circumstances.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is an EIN free?

Yes, completely free. The IRS never charges for an EIN. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge $50-300 to “help” you get an EIN — they’re unnecessary middlemen. Apply directly at IRS.gov/EIN.

How long is an EIN valid?

An EIN is permanent and never expires. Once issued, it’s yours forever — even if you close your business. If you reopen the same business later (same legal structure and owner), you can reuse your old EIN.

Can I get an EIN on weekends?

Yes, but only on Saturday (6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET) and Sunday (6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. ET). The online tool is not available Sunday morning through Sunday evening (until 6:00 p.m.).

What if I make a mistake on my EIN application?

If you catch the error before submitting online, just correct it. If you already submitted and received your EIN, you have two options:

• Minor errors (typo in address, wrong business activity): File Form 8822-B to correct
• Major errors (wrong entity type, wrong legal name): Call 800-829-4933 immediately — you may need to apply for a new EIN

How do I verify an EIN?

To verify that a business’s EIN is legitimate, call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933. You’ll need authorization from the business owner. The IRS doesn’t provide public EIN lookup services.

Can I use my EIN instead of my SSN for credit applications?

For business credit (business credit cards, loans, vendor accounts), yes. For personal credit, no — you must use your SSN. An EIN doesn’t replace your SSN for personal matters.

What if I never received my EIN after applying by mail?

Call 800-829-4933 to check the status. Have your Form SS-4 information ready. If 5 weeks have passed since mailing, the IRS can look up your EIN or issue a duplicate confirmation letter.

Do I need to renew my EIN?

No. EINs don’t expire or need renewal. However, if you don’t file required tax returns for several years, the IRS may administratively close your account. You can reactivate it by filing the required returns.

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Conclusion

Getting an EIN in 2026 is straightforward, free, and essential for most businesses. Whether you’re launching a startup, forming an LLC, incorporating, hiring your first employee, or just want to protect your personal information, the IRS makes it easy to get your EIN online in minutes.

Here’s your action plan:

1. Determine if you need an EIN — Required for corporations, partnerships, employers; optional but recommended for sole proprietors and single-member LLCs
2. Form your business entity with your state (if LLC or corporation)
3. Gather information — Legal name, address, responsible party’s SSN/ITIN, business activity
4. Apply online at IRS.gov/EIN for instant results, or submit Form SS-4 by fax (4 days) or mail (4-5 weeks)
5. Save your confirmation — Print or screenshot the EIN notice immediately
6. Use your EIN for all business tax filings, bank accounts, and vendor forms

Your EIN is one of the foundational pieces of your business infrastructure — right up there with your business bank account, accounting system, and state business license. Take the 5 minutes to get it done right at the start, and you’ll save yourself countless headaches down the road.

Ready to apply? If you prefer the paper route, you can fill out Form SS-4 online using our free fillable PDF tool, then fax or mail it to the IRS.

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This guide reflects IRS requirements as of February 2026. EIN application procedures are subject to change. For the most current information, visit IRS.gov/EIN or consult a qualified tax professional.