How to Get a Federal Taxpayer ID Number
Obtaining a federal tax identification number is not difficult. A federal tax identification number is also known as an employer identification number (EIN). Having this number is an important step in starting your business because it will allow you to receive benefits such as wholesale pricing from distributors and tax advantages. Applying for an EIN is a short process and once it is complete you can begin using the number for your business' needs.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with Internet access (optional)
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form SS-4 (Optional)
- Stamps and envelopes (Optional)
Instructions
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Instructions For Filing Online
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Register your business with your state tax office. Most states have an online registration process through the department of revenue.
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Go to the irs.gov homepage. Select the "Business" link and then select the "Small Business/Self-Employed" link. This should bring you to the web page where you will being your EIN application process. Click on "Employer ID Numbers (EINs)," which will bring you to a page with EIN information. Click on "Apply for an EIN Online," then find and click the link for "Apply Online Now." You will be directed to the EIN Assistant page, where you can begin your application.
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Fill out all of the required information throughout the application.
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Once you have been given the prompt with your number, print out the confirmation and all other documents for your records. You can begin using your new tax identification number immediately to open business bank accounts and order from wholesale vendors.
Instructions for Paper Applications
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Register your business as stated in the online application instructions.
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Obtain form SS-4. These forms can be found at your local tax office or can be downloaded from the IRS website.
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Mail the form in to the address listed on the form. You can also submit it in person to your local IRS office.
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Tips & Warnings
When you mail or submit in person any documents to the IRS, get proof that the paperwork was mailed or received. Mail should be sent certified with a return receipt. If you submit a document in person, get a copy of the document and ask for it to be stamped with proof it was submitted. Save all documents for your records.
No matter which method you use to file your EIN application, it will take about two weeks for the information to be updated in the IRS database. You can still use the number you receive, but wait at least two weeks before filing an electronic tax return.
References
- Photo Credit A young woman holding a pen, doing her taxes image by Christopher Meder from Fotolia.com
