19 steps across 4 sections
1. Online (Recommended -- Instant and Free)
- Website: IRS.gov EIN Assistant (irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online)
- Cost: Free — there is no charge for an EIN from the IRS
- Processing: Immediate. EIN is issued instantly upon completing the online application
- Availability: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time
- Requirement: The responsible party must have a valid SSN or ITIN
- Limitation: Only available to applicants with a principal business address in the United States or U.S. territories
- One per day: The IRS limits online EIN applications to one per responsible party per day
2. By Fax (Form SS-4)
- Complete Form SS-4 and fax to the appropriate IRS fax number
- Processing: Generally within 4 business days
- Fax numbers: Vary by state — check IRS instructions for Form SS-4
- Include a return fax number to receive your EIN
3. By Mail (Form SS-4)
- Complete Form SS-4 and mail to the IRS
- Processing: Approximately 4 weeks
- Mailing address: Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999
- Slowest method — use only if online and fax are not options
4. By Telephone (International Only)
- Call (267) 941-1099 (not a toll-free number)
- Availability: Monday-Friday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time
- Only available to international applicants whose principal business is outside the U.S.
- The responsible party must be available to answer questions and receive the EIN
Common Mistakes
- Paying for an EIN
- Applying for multiple EINs on the same day
- Using the wrong entity type
- Not updating the responsible party
- Losing your EIN
Pro Tips
- Apply online for instant results
- Print or save the confirmation page
- Apply after entity formation
- Use the EIN instead of your SSN
- Request a verification letter