- Decide if you need an Employee Identification Number
- Apply with the IRS for your number
Obtain a Employee Identification Number (EIN)
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Employee Identification Numbers (EIN) are used to identify the tax accounts of employers, certain sole proprietors, corporations, partnerships, estates, trusts, and other entities. There are specific reasons that you need to obtain an EIN. If you have employees, have a qualified retirement plan or operate your business as a corporation of partnership you will need to obtain an EIN. You also will need to obtain one if you file returns for employment taxes, excise taxes or alcohol, tobacco or firearms taxes.
You can get an EIN either through the mail or by telephone, however you first must fill out Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number. You can get Form SS-4 at SSA offices or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-3676. It is also available from the IRS web site at www.irs.gov.
You should apply for an EIN early enough to receive the number by the time you must file a return or statement or make a tax deposit. If you apply by telephone, you can get an EIN immediately. If you apply by mail, file Form SS-4 at least four to five weeks before you need an EIN.
If you do not receive your EIN by the time a return is due, file your return anyway. Write "Applied for" and the date you applied for the number in the space for the EIN.
For more help about obtaining an EIN and downloadable .pdf of Form SS-4 go to http://www.corpamerica.com/federaltaxid.html
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