An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is an IRS-issued unique identification number for your business, similar to a social security number for individuals, which is used for tracking federal tax compliance of business entities.
Ways to Locate Your EIN
Check Your Documents
One primary method to locate your EIN is by sifting through your business’s official records. This includes:
- IRS correspondence
- Tax returns
- Business registration paperwork
Your EIN should be clearly listed on these documents, typically on the first page of tax returns, near the top.
Contact the IRS
If your EIN is not found within your documents, you can directly:
- Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: 800-829-4933, available Monday-Friday, 7am to 7pm Eastern Standard Time.
Online Resources
IRS Online Database
You may also find your EIN online through:
- IRS EIN Lookup Tool: Visit the IRS website and use the “Search for Your EIN” feature.
- Online Tax Services: Provide your business information to search for your EIN in their databases.
Other Online Methods
- Company Filings: If the company is publicly traded, its 10-K form may include the EIN.
- W-2 Forms: Employees can find their employer’s EIN when filing taxes.
- Financial Institutions: Contact your bank if you used your EIN to open a business account.
- State Agencies: Call your state authority if you applied for licenses or permits using your EIN.