What is an EIN Number?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses your business’ employer identification number (EIN) to identify your company, much the way a Social Security number is used to identify individuals. An EIN is used for tax filing purposes, and when you form an LLC, you’ll probably need to obtain an EIN. 

How an EIN is Used

An EIN is used to identify your company and contains information about the state where you do business. The IRS uses it to determine your company as a taxpayer. An EIN is also used to track your business credit and is usually necessary to open a business bank account. 

Who Can Get an EIN?

Any business, regardless of entity type, can get an EIN, even a sole proprietorship. However, a sole proprietorship does not have to obtain an EIN if the business has no employees. The sole proprietor can use their Social Security number for tax filing purposes. 

Do I Have to Get an EIN for my Business?

If you have a limited liability company (LLC) that has more than one member or if you are going to hire employees, you’ll need to have an EIN. But these aren’t the only factors. The IRS offers a test to determine if you need an EIN:

• Do you have employees?
• Do you operate your business as a corporation or a partnership?
• Do you file any of these tax returns: Employment, Excise, or Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms?
• Do you withhold taxes on income, other than wages, paid to a non-resident alien?
• Do you have a Keogh plan?
• Are you involved with any of the following types of organizations?
• Trusts, except certain grantor-owned revocable trusts, IRAs, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Returns
• Estates
• Real estate mortgage investment conduits
• Non-profit organizations
• Farmers’ cooperatives
• Plan administrators

If you answer yes to any of those questions, you need an EIN.

Benefits of an EIN

There are several reasons to get an EIN, even if you’re not required to have one. First of all, it adds a degree of separation between your business and personal finances. Besides, it’s usually needed to open a business bank account. 

Also, it will allow you to establish business credit, which can help you access future financing. Finally, if you’re not hiring employees now but may do so, you’ll already have your EIN and be ready to go. 

What Do I Need to Get an EIN?

According to the IRS:

When you fill out the application, you’ll need the following:

• DBA name, if you have one
• Name, title, and Social Security number of managing member or owner
• Business address
• State in which your business is registered
• Reason for applying
• Main business activity
• Products/services offered 
• Closing month of your accounting year
• Contact phone number and email

How to Apply for an EIN

The application is Form SS-4, and you can submit it via the IRS website. You can print the form or mail it. If you apply online, your EIN will be issued immediately.

To learn what you need to do to get an EIN in your state, pick your state from the list below. You’ll get all the important details and resources required to obtain an EIN for your business registered in that state.

In Closing

In most situations, obtaining an EIN for your business is a necessity. If you don’t, you won’t be able to file your taxes – which sounds great, but it can get you in a world of trouble. On the other hand, getting an EIN is simple and free, so get one before you start doing business.