irs how to find my ein

4 min read 26-11-2024

If you're a business owner, Nonprofit organization leader, or simply someone who works with organizations that require an Employer Identification Number (EIN), knowing how to find your EIN is essential. The EIN, often referred to as a Tax Identification Number (TIN), is a nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to businesses for tax purposes. Whether you’ve misplaced it or are just starting your business journey, this guide will provide you with all the necessary steps and insights on how to locate your EIN.

What is an EIN?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique number that the IRS assigns to businesses for tax identification, much like a Social Security Number (SSN) is assigned to individuals. The EIN is crucial for various activities, including:

Opening a business bank account
Filing tax returns
Applying for business licenses
Applying for loans or credit

In essence, the EIN acts like a “social security number” for businesses.

Why Do You Need an EIN?

Legal Requirement

Not every business entity requires an EIN, but if your business structure is a Corporation, LLC, Partnership, or certain Nonprofit organizations, you will need it. The EIN is necessary for official documentation and legal compliance.

Facilitates Business Operations

If you're hiring employees, opening a business bank account, or filing taxes for your business, having an EIN makes these processes smoother. Banks typically require an EIN to open a business account, and the IRS requires it for filing various tax forms.

Protects Personal Information

Using your EIN instead of your SSN helps to protect your personal identity and can minimize the risk of identity theft.

How to Find Your EIN

Finding your EIN can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Here’s how you can find your EIN:

1. Check Your Business Documents

Before contacting the IRS or conducting extensive searches, check through your existing business documents. Your EIN might be noted in the following places:

Tax Returns: Past tax returns (both personal and business) will clearly state your EIN.
Bank Statements: If you’ve opened a business bank account, your EIN could be printed on your bank statements.
Official Correspondence: Any correspondence from the IRS regarding tax matters will typically have your EIN indicated.

2. Contact the IRS

If you can’t find your EIN through documentation, calling the IRS could be your next best option. Here’s how to do it:

Phone Call: Call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933. Be prepared to provide identifying information about your business, such as the name and address, as well as your personal information for verification.
Business Hours: Make sure to call during their business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM local time.

3. Check Your Online Account

If you have previously registered your EIN online, you might have access to it via the IRS’s online portals. Here's how:

Access IRS Online Services: Go to the IRS website.
Create or Log into Your Account: If you haven’t created an account, you may need to do so, providing personal information.
Locate EIN: Once logged in, find your EIN listed under your business information.

4. Use the Social Security Administration

If your EIN was assigned to you when filling out Form SS-4, you can find it through the Social Security Administration.

5. State Agencies

If your EIN was required for state-level taxation, sometimes state tax agencies have documentation associated with your EIN. Contact your state department of revenue or equivalent agency to inquire.

6. Verify through Your Accountant or Tax Professional

If you used an accountant or tax professional for your business tax filings, they should have a record of your EIN. Simply reach out to them for assistance.

The UK Perspective: How to Find Your UTR

While the topic of this guide solely revolves around the U.S. EIN, international business owners might wonder about equivalent identifiers in other countries. In the UK, for example, businesses have a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR). If you're operating in both the U.S. and UK, understanding how to find UTR is equally critical. Obtaining a UTR involves contacting HM Revenue and Customs, where it is assigned to businesses for tax tracking.

Additional Tips for EIN Safety

Once you have located your EIN, it’s crucial to keep it safe. Here are some practical tips to ensure its security:

Store Securely: Keep a digital and physical copy in a secure folder.
Limit Access: Only give your EIN to trustworthy entities to minimize risk.
Monitor Usage: Be vigilant about any unauthorized usage or strange communications.

What Happens if You Cannot Find Your EIN?

If you attempt all the methods mentioned and still cannot recover your EIN, you can apply for a new one. However, the IRS advises against this unless absolutely necessary. Here’s how to go about it:

Complete Form SS-4: Fill out the application for an Employer Identification Number (Form SS-4).
Submit to IRS: Ensure that you submit your application to the appropriate IRS address or online platform.

Conclusion

Knowing how to find your EIN is essential for any business owner or nonprofit organization. From checking past documents to contacting the IRS, the process can be straightforward if you know what to do. Always ensure that you keep your EIN secure and avoid unnecessary complications by safeguarding it.

For those setting up a new business, it’s wise to apply for your EIN as soon as possible to streamline operations and simplify processes. The information provided in this guide encompasses various ways to locate your EIN, including additional tips and insights that go beyond basic steps.

Whether you're navigating the complexities of business ownership or simply updating your records, understanding how to manage your EIN can save you time and stress in the long run.

Disclaimer: If you need personalized advice or assistance, please consult with a tax professional or an attorney specializing in business law. The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or tax advice.

References: For more information, visit IRS: Understanding your Employer Identification Number.