Business entities
Employer identification number (EIN)
An employer identification number is a federal tax ID number the IRS assigns to businesses, including those that hire employees or file certain business returns.
An EIN is a federal tax ID for a business. The IRS says you can get one for free directly from the IRS. Anyone who has employees, or will pay employment or excise taxes, needs an EIN. Many banks also ask for one.
The EIN identifies the business on payroll filings such as Form 941 and on contractor forms. A new limited liability company usually applies for its EIN right after it is formed. Use only the IRS website to apply, and avoid sites that charge a fee. The business formation page shows where the EIN fits.
Related terms
Sources
Talk to Wallace CPA
Call the Southlake office and say what you need: a return, an IRS letter, your books or a new business. Have the notice or last year's return nearby if you have one.