What Is an Employer Identification Number (EIN)?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that is used to identify a business entity. The IRS uses the EIN to identify and track businesses for tax purposes.

The EIN is also known as a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).

Businesses that are required to obtain an EIN include corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies, and sole proprietorships that have employees.

The EIN is also used by estates and trusts, non-profit organizations, government agencies, certain pension plans, and certain businesses engaged in interstate commerce.

The EIN is similar to a Social Security Number (SSN) for an individual in that it is used to identify a business entity for tax purposes.

However, an EIN is not required for businesses that do not have employees, such as sole proprietorships with no employees and partnerships with no employees.

businesses that do have employees must obtain an EIN from the IRS.

The process for obtaining an EIN is relatively simple.

businesses can apply for an EIN online, by fax, or by mail.

The IRS provides instructions on how to apply for an EIN on its website.

Once a business has obtained an EIN, it will use the number on all future tax filings.

The EIN is also used to open a business bank account and to apply for business licenses and permits.

Can you file taxes without EIN number? Generally, businesses need an EIN to file their taxes. However, there are a few exceptions. If you are a sole proprietor with no employees, you can use your Social Security number instead of an EIN. You may also be able to use an EIN filed by your LLC with the IRS.

Are company EIN numbers public? Yes, company EIN numbers are public. The IRS website includes a searchable database of all businesses that have been issued an EIN. This information is available to the public because the IRS is required to make it available under the Freedom of Information Act. Can I look up my EIN number online? It is possible to look up your EIN number online. The IRS has an online EIN Lookup tool that allows you to search for your EIN by name and address. What is an example of an EIN number? An EIN number is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to business entities for tax filing purposes. The number is used to identify the business on tax documents and is required for businesses to file federal taxes. Where is the EIN on a W-2? The EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is a nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to businesses for tax filing purposes. This number is printed on the W-2 form and is used to identify the employer.