Check out our new interview-style application!

No more need to file a Form SS-4! We ask you the questions and you give us the answers. After all validations are done you will get your EIN immediately upon completion. You can then download, save, and print your EIN confirmation notice.

This EIN is your permanent number and can be used immediately for most of your business needs, including: opening a bank account; applying for business licenses; and filing a tax return by mail. However, no matter how you apply (phone, fax, mail, or online), it will take up to two weeks before your EIN becomes part of the IRS' permanent records. You must wait until this occurs before you can: file an electronic return, make an electronic payment, or pass an IRS Taxpayer Identification Number matching program.

Important information for sole proprietors

A sole proprietor can have only one EIN, regardless of the number or types of businesses you operate. If you were previously assigned an EIN as a sole proprietor, you must continue to use that number. If you were previously assigned an EIN as a Household Employer, you should use that number for your sole proprietor needs as well. If you are unable to locate your sole proprietor EIN, follow the instructions for locating a misplaced EIN. If you need to update your business address information, complete Form 8822 (PDF) and mail it to us.

This application is available during the following hours:
Monday - Friday 6:00 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. Eastern time
Saturday 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Eastern time
Sunday 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Eastern time

References/Related Topic

• Privacy Act Statement and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• System Requirements
• State and Federal Online Business Registration
• Employer ID Numbers (EIN)