How to Obtain an EIN Number Online
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique, nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to companies for tax purposes. With an online application, there's no need to fill out and mail Form SS-4, Application for an EIN. In addition to the convenience of an online application, the IRS's EIN Assistant walks you through the process with an interview-style, virtual application. Best of all, you get an instant EIN after you have completed the application.
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Instructions
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Navigate to the IRS's EIN Assistant link (see the Resources section of this article).
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Click "Begin Application."
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Select the type of legal structure your business is. For example, click the radio button next to "Sole Proprietor."
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Click "Continue." The EIN Assistant will ask you to narrow your business type in the next screen, if applicable. For example, if you choose "Sole Proprietor" you will be given a second screen that asks you if you are a Sole Proprietor or Household Employer.
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Continue answering the questions in the interview-style application. You'll be asked to verify your identity and to provide information about your business, such as location and phone number.
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Print off or file the PDF that pops up on the last screen. It contains the notification of your EIN and is the only notification you will receive.
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Tips & Warnings
Ensure that you enter information accurately and completely. If the virtual assistant can't verify your entered information, you won't get an instant EIN: you'll have to wait for an IRS employee to manually process the application and that could take up to six weeks.
References
Resources
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