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Updated on August 17, 2023
How to Get an EIN for an LLC in North Dakota
Do I Need an EIN?
Benefits of Having an EIN
What Do I Need to Get an EIN in North Dakota?
How to Apply for an EIN in North Dakota
Register for North Dakota Taxes
FAQs
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses your business’s employer identification number (EIN) to identify your company, much the way a Social Security number is used to identify individuals.
If your LLC has more than one member or if you are going to hire employees, you’ll need 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 these questions, your business needs an EIN.
Benefits of Having an EIN
There are several reasons to get an EIN, even if you’re not required to have one.
Banks often require an EIN to open business accounts. In addition, bankers, creditors, and the IRS will identify your business by its EIN rather than by your personal Social Security number, adding a degree of separation between your business and personal finances.
Also, an EIN will boost access to financing by helping establish business credit. And, if you do end up hiring employees in the future, you’ll already have your EIN and be ready to go.
What Do I Need to Get an EIN in North Dakota?
According to the IRS:
All EIN applications (mail, fax, electronic) must disclose the name and Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, or EIN) of the true principal officer, general partner, grantor, owner, or trustor. This individual or entity, which the IRS will call the ‘responsible party,’ controls, manages or directs the applicant entity and the disposition of its funds and assets. Unless the applicant is a government entity, the responsible party must be an individual (i.e., a natural person), not an entity.
When you fill out the application, you’ll need the following:
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 in North Dakota
The application is Form SS-4, and you can submit it via the IRS website. Alternatively, you can print the form and fax or mail it. If you apply online, your EIN will be issued immediately.
There is no cost to obtain an EIN, which never expires.
Register for North Dakota Taxes
You also may need to register for business taxes in North Dakota.
If you have employees, you’ll need to register to withhold personal income taxes on the North Dakota Taxpayer Access Point. In addition, you can register for sales tax on the same site if you sell taxable goods or services.
You’ll also need to register for unemployment taxes with the Job Services Department if you have employees.
Your local government may also require tax registrations.
FAQs
How much does it cost to get an EIN for my LLC in North Dakota?
When applying directly through the IRS, there’s no fee for obtaining an EIN. It’s a free service.
After applying, how long will it take to receive my LLC's EIN in North Dakota?
If you apply online, you typically get your EIN instantly upon successful completion. Applications sent via fax usually take about four business days, while mailed forms can require 4-5 weeks.
Instead of an EIN, can I use my personal SSN for my LLC's transactions in North Dakota?
While sole proprietors sometimes use their SSN for business, it’s recommended that LLCs obtain a separate EIN. This ensures added security and can simplify certain business dealings.
Is there a need to periodically renew my EIN in North Dakota?
No, EINs are permanent once assigned to a business. Your North Dakota LLC will retain its EIN unless there are major changes in the business structure.
Is it possible for non-U.S. citizens to get an EIN for their LLC in North Dakota?
Absolutely. Foreign nationals can obtain an EIN for their North Dakota LLC. They can apply even if they don’t have an SSN or ITIN, typically using fax or mail.
Are there any specific regulations or details in North Dakota regarding EINs that I should be aware of?
While the EIN application process is federally standardized, it’s essential to be informed about any state-specific obligations or regulations in North Dakota after obtaining your EIN.
