How to Look Up an EIN for a Business or Employer

Understanding how to locate an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is essential for various financial and business tasks. Whether you’re a business owner, accountant, or handling tax documents, knowing where to find this number can save time and prevent errors.

Checking Official Business Documents

To locate an EIN, start by reviewing official business documents. These often include the EIN, assigned by the IRS for tax purposes. Check the company’s formation documents, such as the Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization, which may include the EIN.

Tax returns are another key source. For corporations, refer to Form 1120, and for partnerships, check Form 1065. Both forms display the EIN on the first page. Payroll tax filings, like Form 941, also prominently feature the EIN. These documents are critical for compliance and serve as a reliable reference.

Bank statements and loan applications may also list the EIN, as financial institutions require it for account setup and loan processing. Additionally, IRS correspondence, such as notices or letters, will typically include the EIN, especially if related to tax matters.

Verifying Tax Forms

Tax forms are a dependable source for verifying an EIN. Form W-2, used to report wages and taxes withheld, clearly displays the EIN, making it vital for both employers and employees during tax filing season.

Form 1099, which reports non-wage income, also requires the EIN and is important for businesses working with independent contractors. Accurate EIN reporting on these forms helps avoid penalties or audits.

For corporations, Form 1120 is used to declare financial details like income and deductions, with the EIN playing a key role in compliance. Partnerships use Form 1065, which also prominently features the EIN. Ensuring the correct EIN on these forms is essential for maintaining accurate tax records.

Searching Public Databases

Public databases can be useful when official documents and tax forms are unavailable. The SEC’s EDGAR system, a repository of financial statements for publicly traded companies, often includes the EIN. This tool is valuable for investors, analysts, and researchers seeking detailed financial information.

For non-public businesses, state-specific databases managed by the Secretary of State’s office provide online business entity search tools. These databases may offer basic information about registered businesses, including the EIN in some cases, though access can vary by state due to privacy regulations.

Nonprofit organizations’ EINs can be found through databases like GuideStar, which compiles IRS Form 990 filings. These forms provide information on a nonprofit’s EIN, financials, and operations, making GuideStar an essential resource for donors, grantmakers, and researchers seeking transparency and accountability.

Contacting the IRS for Assistance

If other methods fail, contacting the IRS can help. The IRS, as the issuing authority for EINs, provides assistance through the Business and Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933. This service handles EIN inquiries and other business tax matters.

Before calling, have the business’s legal name, mailing address, and previous tax filings ready to streamline the process. The IRS adheres to strict privacy laws, disclosing EIN information only to authorized individuals, such as business owners, partners, or those with a valid Power of Attorney (Form 2848).