Obtain EIN Number Online — Fast & Accurate
You can obtain an EIN online and receive it instantly during IRS hours. Want us to handle it for you? Start below and we’ll prepare and file everything on your behalf.
*IRS online EIN system: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Eastern.
What You’ll Need
- Legal name & mailing address
- Entity type (LLC, Corporation, Sole Prop, Nonprofit, Trust, Estate, etc.)
- Responsible party’s legal name & SSN/ITIN
- Reason for obtaining an EIN
- Start date & principal activity
Short answer: You can obtain an EIN instantly online when applying during IRS operating hours. Prefer to avoid mistakes and delays? TaxIDFast will prepare and file your EIN application accurately and quickly.
What is an EIN?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a 9-digit federal tax ID used for banking, payroll, permits, and taxes. It identifies your business with the IRS and other institutions.
The IRS issues EINs free of charge. TaxIDFast provides paid preparation & filing services.
How to Obtain an EIN (Step-by-Step)
Who Needs an EIN?
- Businesses hiring employees
- Corporations, LLCs, Partnerships, Nonprofits
- Trusts, Estates, Retirement Plans
- Anyone opening a business bank account
Requirements & Responsible Party
Your EIN application must list a responsible party—an individual with control over the entity and its assets. For most businesses this is the owner. One EIN per responsible party per day is allowed.
IRS Hours & Ways to Apply
- Online: Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–10 p.m. ET
- Fax: Send Form SS-4 (~4 days turnaround)
- Mail: IRS, Cincinnati, OH (~4 weeks)
- International: Call 267-941-1099
Prefer Done-For-You?
TaxIDFast prepares and files your EIN request quickly and accurately so you can focus on running your business.
Start ApplicationCommon EIN Mistakes
- Applying before forming your LLC/Corporation
- Incorrect responsible party or missing SSN/ITIN
- Submitting outside IRS hours expecting instant issuance
- Duplicate submissions
Scenarios
LLC
Responsible party: Owner or member with control.
Sole Proprietor
Responsible party: You, using your SSN/ITIN.
Nonprofit
File organizing documents first, then obtain EIN.
After You Obtain an EIN
- File Form 8822-B if responsible party/address changes
- Check FinCEN reporting requirements
- Set up payroll if hiring
- Keep EIN letter for banks & licenses
FAQ
How long does it take?
Online: instant. Fax: ~4 days. Mail: ~4 weeks.
Does it cost anything?
IRS: free. TaxIDFast charges a prep & filing service fee.
Do I need an SSN/ITIN?
Yes for most, but internationals can apply by phone or mail.