Can I Verify a Tax ID Number Online?

A Tax ID Number (TIN) serves as a unique identifier for individuals and entities in tax administration. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses these nine-digit numbers to track taxpayers and enforce tax laws. While the Social Security Administration (SSA) issues Social Security Numbers (SSNs), the IRS issues all other types of TINs. Online TIN verification is possible, though methods and accessibility vary by TIN type and purpose. This article explores the capabilities and processes involved in online TIN verification.

Understanding Online Verification Capabilities

Online verification capabilities for Tax ID Numbers depend on the type of TIN and the context of the inquiry. Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) are generally the most accessible for online verification, especially for businesses and non-profit organizations. Businesses often verify EINs to confirm a vendor’s legitimacy for tax reporting. This verification also extends to confirming the tax-exempt status of charities, which is important for donors seeking tax-deductible contributions.

Direct online verification of Social Security Numbers (SSNs) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) by the general public is limited due to privacy concerns. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS), but this tool is specifically for employers to verify SSNs for wage reporting, not for public access. Public online verification tools for ITINs are also not available. The primary focus of publicly available online verification tools centers around EINs, particularly for business-to-business interactions and public transparency regarding tax-exempt organizations.

Information Required for Online Verification

Gathering specific information is essential for online Tax ID Number verification. The most fundamental requirement is the Tax ID Number itself, whether an EIN, SSN, or ITIN. Without the exact number, online verification is generally not possible.

The precise legal name of the entity or individual associated with the TIN is also important. Discrepancies between the provided name and the name on file can lead to failed verification attempts, as many online tools match both the number and the name. For EINs, knowing the entity type, such as a corporation, partnership, or non-profit, can be helpful or required by certain verification platforms. Other identifying details like an address may be requested by some services to cross-reference information and enhance accuracy.

Performing Online Verification Steps

Online Tax ID Number verification steps vary by tool. For businesses needing to verify payee TINs, the IRS offers the On-Line Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) Matching Program. This free web-based tool, available through IRS e-Services, allows payers to check the accuracy of TIN and name combinations against IRS records before filing information returns. Users can perform interactive matching for up to 25 combinations with immediate results, or bulk matching for up to 100,000 combinations, with results typically available within 24 hours.

For verifying the tax-exempt status of organizations, the IRS provides the Tax Exempt Organization Search (EO Select Check) tool. This public database allows individuals to confirm if an organization is recognized by the IRS as tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3), or if its tax-exempt status has been revoked. Users can search by the organization’s name, city, state, or EIN to retrieve information.

Employers requiring SSN verification for wage reporting can use the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Business Services Online (BSO) and its Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS). This service allows registered employers to verify names and SSNs of employees against SSA records. Employers can verify up to 10 names and SSNs online for immediate results, or upload files of up to 250,000 names and SSNs, receiving results the next business day. This service is exclusively for employers and authorized third-party submitters.

General online searches can sometimes provide limited verification through publicly available business registries. Many states maintain online databases, often through their Secretary of State websites, where businesses are registered. While these databases primarily list business names and registration numbers, some may include or indirectly allow for EIN verification. Using such public sources requires caution, as the information may not always be up-to-date or directly linked to IRS records.

Other Verification Methods

When online methods are unavailable or insufficient, alternative Tax ID Number verification approaches exist. A common method involves directly requesting the TIN from the entity or individual. For businesses engaging with independent contractors or other vendors, requesting a completed IRS Form W-9, Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification, is standard practice. This form requires the payee to provide their correct TIN and certification. For employees, a Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Certificate, will include their Social Security Number.

Third-party verification services may offer TIN verification as part of broader services, such as background checks or financial due diligence. These services often come with associated costs and may require specific authorization or access. Third-party services must comply with relevant regulations and handle sensitive information.

The IRS does not provide direct TIN verification services over the phone or by mail to the general public due to privacy regulations. Such inquiries are accommodated in specific circumstances, often involving tax professionals with proper authorization.