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How to Get an EIN — Free from the IRS

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a Social Security number for your business. It's free to get directly from the IRS — do NOT pay a third-party service.

Who Needs an EIN?

  • •Any business that hires employees
  • •LLCs with more than one member
  • •S-Corps and C-Corps (always required)
  • •Any business that wants a business bank account
  • •Businesses that file excise or employment tax returns

How to Apply (Free)

  1. Online (recommended) — Go to IRS.gov EIN Assistant. Available Mon–Fri, 7am–10pm ET. Instant.
  2. By fax — Fill out Form SS-4, fax to IRS. Response in 4 business days.
  3. By mail — Mail Form SS-4 to IRS. Response in 4 weeks.
  4. By phone (international only) — Call 267-941-1099.

The IRS does not charge for an EIN. If a website asks for payment, it's a third-party service, not the IRS.

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