How to Get the Employer Identification Number EIN for a Deceased Persons Estate

After a business owner passes away, one of the first actions taken by the personal representative or executor is to apply for a new Employer Identication Number. A EIN is similar to a Social Security Number. It identifies the estate for tax and legal filings. The EIN must be entered on tax returns, statements, probate filings and other documents concerning the estate. There are some circumstances where no new number is necessary. If a number is necessary, you need to get one through the Internal Revenue Service.

Things You'll Need

• Social Security number and name of deceased
• IRS Form SS-4

Instructions

1. Apply for the number through the IRS.gov website. The Social Security number is needed along with other basic information. The site says the EIN can be provided within a week if you provide a fax number, and two weeks if the IRS has to send it by mail.

2. Fill out IRS form SS-4 and apply by mail. The form can be found at IRS.gov. It will take about five weeks to get the EIN through the mail.

3. Apply by phone at 1-800-829-4933. Operators are available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday.

References

• IRS: Employer Identification Number