How to Apply for an Federal Employer's Identification Number (FEIN)

A Federal Employer's Identification Number (FEIN) is also known as the Taxpayer's Identification Number. An EIN is a nine digit number that is assigned to a business entity. The business entity can be a sole proprietorship, partnership, Limited Liability Corporation, or can be based on non-profit cooperatives. There are two main reasons for having your FEIN. If the business is going to have employees, even if it is just the owner, the FEIN is necessary for the payroll taxes. You may also want to get your FEIN to protect yourself from identity theft. The FEIN identifies the business to banks, vendors and creditors while protecting your personal social security number.

There are four ways to apply for an FEIN:

Apply for an FEIN online. Once the application is submitted, it is immediately verified and the FEIN number is available immediately. This can save a lot of time and headaches if you need your number rapidly.

Apply for an FEIN by Toll-Free Telephone Service. The Internal Revenue Service also offers US residents with a toll free number (800) 829-4933. An assistor will take your information over the phone and assign you an FEIN immediately. The service is available Monday through Friday from 7 am to 10 pm.

Apply for an FEIN by FAX: You can fill out an SS-4 application and FAX it to your local IRS office. Find your local IRS fax number. If you provide your fax number with your application, your FEIN will be sent by fax within four business days.

Apply for an FEIN by Mail: If you do not need your FEIN number immediately, send your completed SS-4 form to the Internal Revenue Service by mail. It will take approximately four weeks to receive your FEIN.

Business which may need new FEIN numbers are any business which changes its tax structure such as going from a sole proprietorship to a partnership, or if you buy an existing business. If you close your business down, be sure to contact the Internal Revenue Service and close out your FEIN account with them.

Internal Revenue Service: How to Apply for an FEIN

FEIN Application - SS-4 Form

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