How to Find a Business Tax ID Number

If you have a business tax ID number (also called an EIN, or employer ID number) but are not sure what it is, there are a couple of options for retrieving it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• previous records
• telephone

1. The IRS provided a receipt when you applied for your EIN. If you can find this receipt, it will contain the EIN.

2. If you have a business checking account, an EIN would have been needed when you applied. Check your bank statements or call your bank to see how to access your EIN.

3. State and local business licenses require an EIN. If you have the paperwork from the applications, or the licenses, you should be able to retrieve your EIN.

4. Check your previous tax returns. The EIN must be included when you file taxes for your business.

5. Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line. Their phone number is 1-800-829-4933. They will ask for some information, and may be able to provide your EIN over the phone.

Resources

• IRS - Misplaced your EIN?

[gahazeleyes]

on 4/25/2009 Thank you. Very helpful.

[lemonpeppoart]

on 4/22/2009 Nice article with useful information for those in need. Thank you!

[aquaeyedgirl]

on 4/14/2009 I appreciate your tips on this. I will use it in the future.

[carmensjones]

on 4/11/2009 How to Find a Business Tax ID Number is great info. 5