How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is a unique nine-digit identifier issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to business entities. This number serves as a federal tax ID for various purposes, much like a Social Security Number identifies an individual. Businesses require an EIN for federal tax filings, to open a business bank account, and to hire employees. Obtaining an EIN is a fundamental step for many entities to comply with tax regulations and conduct financial operations.

Choosing an Application Method

The time it takes to receive an EIN largely depends on the application method chosen. Applying online through the IRS website is the quickest way, providing immediate results for eligible applicants upon completion. This online service is available Monday through Friday during specific hours, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time. However, this method is only available for applicants with a legal residence, principal place of business, or principal office within the United States or its territories, and the responsible party must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).

For those who cannot apply online, faxing Form SS-4 offers a faster alternative to mail. If a return fax number is provided, the IRS faxes the EIN back within four business days. This method is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. International applicants, who cannot use the online system, can apply by phone, receiving their EIN immediately during the call. This dedicated international line operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Submitting Form SS-4 by mail is the slowest option, with processing times ranging from four to six weeks. The IRS recommends completing Form SS-4 at least four to five weeks before the EIN is needed if applying by mail. Regardless of the method, only one EIN can be applied for per day per responsible entity.

Information Required for Application

Before beginning the EIN application, gather all necessary information to ensure a smooth process. This includes the legal name of the entity, which should match official registration documents. If the business operates under a different name, a trade name or “doing business as” (DBA) name should also be prepared. The application requires both the mailing address, where official correspondence will be sent, and the physical street address of the business, if different from the mailing address.

The responsible party’s details are needed, including their full name and Social Security Number (SSN), Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or an existing EIN if the responsible party is another entity. The responsible party is the individual who ultimately owns or controls the entity or has access to its funds and assets. The type of entity, such as a corporation, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC), must be specified, along with the reason for applying for the EIN (e.g., starting a new business, hiring employees, or changing organizational structure). Other details needed include the start date of the business, the closing month of its accounting year, and a description of its principal business activity.

Completing and Submitting Your Application

The process of completing and submitting Form SS-4 varies based on the chosen method. For online applications, the process is interview-style, guiding the applicant through a series of questions. Users navigate the IRS website, select their entity type, input the gathered information into designated fields, and affirm their reason for applying. The system then performs real-time validation, and if all information is accurate and eligibility criteria are met, the EIN is assigned instantly.

For fax or mail submissions, applicants must first download and complete Form SS-4 from the IRS website. This form requires accurate completion of each section, including the legal name, addresses, responsible party information, entity type, and reason for application. Once completed, the form can be faxed to the appropriate IRS fax number, which differs for domestic and international applicants. For mail submissions, the completed Form SS-4 is sent to the designated IRS address for EIN operations in Cincinnati, Ohio. International applicants applying by phone will speak with an IRS representative who will ask questions from Form SS-4 to gather the necessary details and assign the EIN during the call.

Receiving and Using Your EIN

Upon successful application, the method of receiving the EIN confirmation differs by submission type. For online applications, the EIN is provided immediately on-screen, and applicants should print or save this confirmation for their records. For faxed applications, the EIN is faxed back within four business days to the return fax number provided.

If the application was submitted by mail, the official EIN confirmation letter will be sent via postal service, arriving within four to six weeks. Regardless of how it is received, keep the EIN and the confirmation letter in a secure location with other business documents. Once the EIN is obtained, it can be used for several business activities, such as opening a business bank account, which often requires verification of the EIN. It also enables businesses to hire employees and begin processing payroll taxes, and to file federal tax returns as required by the IRS.