Where Do I Find My Federal Tax ID Number if I’ve Lost It?
Discover practical steps to recover your lost Federal Tax ID Number using official notifications, filed forms, online tools, or direct IRS contact.
Losing your Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN) can be stressful, as it plays a crucial role in financial and legal transactions, from filing taxes to applying for business licenses.
Checking Official IRS Notifications
To recover a lost TIN, review any correspondence from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Documents like IRS Notice CP575, sent when an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is issued, prominently display the TIN and are essential to keep on file.
The IRS also provides other communications that may list the TIN, such as Form 147C, which verifies an EIN for banking or contractual purposes. Documentation related to tax audits or adjustments often includes the TIN as well, offering another source for retrieval.
Reviewing Filed Tax Forms
Previously filed tax forms are another reliable way to locate a lost TIN. For individuals, forms like the 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ display the number. These forms provide a record of tax compliance and financial activity.
For businesses, the EIN can be found on forms such as the 1120 for corporations or the 1065 for partnerships. Payroll-related forms like the W-2 and 1099-MISC also include the EIN, ensuring accurate records of employee wages and contractor payments.
Online Methods for Retrieval
The IRS offers online tools that make recovering a lost TIN more convenient. The Online EIN Assistant allows businesses to apply for and retrieve their EIN quickly, a helpful resource for small business owners who have misplaced their number.
Taxpayers can also use the IRS e-Services platform to access transcripts of previously filed tax returns. Transcripts like the Wage and Income Transcript include TIN details, providing a straightforward way to confirm your number.
Authorized tax professionals can retrieve their clients’ TINs through the IRS’s Tax Professional Account. If you work with a CPA or tax advisor, they may assist in accessing your TIN via this platform.
Contacting the IRS Directly
If other methods don’t work, contacting the IRS directly is an effective option. The IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line assists businesses in recovering their EIN. When calling, be prepared with relevant documentation, such as prior tax filings or business registration records, to streamline the verification process.