Introduction
An Employer ID Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identity Number, is used to identify a business entity. Applying for an EIN is one of the many important steps for managing your company.
Do I Need an EIN?
To put it simply, if you are a corporation or have employees, you will need one. EINs are important for tax compliance purposes, and you’ll also need one to open your company bank account. If you'd like to know more, the IRS has provided detailed guidance on EIN requirements. Consult your lawyer or tax advisor if you have any concerns.
Obtaining an EIN
You can directly request an EIN for your company from the IRS. If your company is located in the United States and the applicant has a valid taxpayer identification number (a Social Security Number, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or another Employer Identification Number), you can apply for your EIN using the IRS's EIN Online Application. Any applicant can submit Form SS-4 via fax or mail.
The EIN workflow will guide you to apply for an EIN and upload the documentation. You can begin the process of getting an EIN once you reach the Wait for Filing step in the incorporation workflow.
The beginning of the workflow gives you a link that will bring you straight to the IRS's EIN application.
When you have completed the process, return to the EIN workflow to upload your documents and enter your EIN number.
EINs for Non-US Applicants
If you’re a non-US applicant (not a U.S. citizen or resident alien and you reside outside of the U.S.) who starts a company in the United States, getting an EIN can be slightly more complex. You can’t apply for it online through the IRS unless you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Under these circumstances, if you do not engage Fidelity's services, your options for obtaining an EIN are
- Get it yourself over the phone by calling the IRS directly.
- Mail or fax in the SS-4 to the IRS.
- Hire a service provider to get the EIN for you.
When you’re done, make sure to return to the EIN workflow to upload and record your EIN.
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Screenshots are for illustrative purposes only.
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