Business owners need access to their EIN before they can do anything else in their business. It is used to set up bank accounts, apply for funding, and more. It’s important to know how to check the status of your EIN when you need it.
What is an EIN
How to Check EIN Status Table of Contents
An Employer Identification Number, (EIN), is a nine-digit number assigned to a business by the IRS. It is used to identify the business for tax purposes. It is also used for various business functions such as hiring and paying employees or applying for business credit.
How to Check EIN Application Status
If you’ve already applied for your EIN and you’re wondering the status, read this. There is currently no way to check the status of your EIN application online. The best thing to do is call the IRS directly. Here’s a short guide on what to expect. Make sure you are the responsible party on Form SS-4 for your company. If not, you’ll need to change the form to make yourself the responsible party, or have the current responsible party make the call.
Have your form SS-4 available.
Call 1-800-829-4933 during IRS business hours: Monday – Friday 7am-7pm EST
Various menu options will be available choose the following
- Option 1
- Option 1 again
- Option 3
When the IRS agent picks up, let them know you are calling to obtain the status of your EIN application. Also let them know the date the application was submitted and how it was submitted (fax or mail).
The agent will request some additional information. It can all be found on your Form SS-4
- Name of the Company
- Responsible Party Name
- Company Address
- Date of Formation
- Social Security Number
- Type of Entity
- Your Title or Position in the Company
Based on this information, the agent will be able to look up your company. If an EIN has been issued, they will let you know at this time. Ask the agent for the number and write it down. Verify the number by reading it back to the agent for confirmation. Request that the agent fax or mail an EIN letter to you for your records.
Keep your EIN in a safe place!
If you haven’t applied for your EIN yet but would like to, keep reading to learn how.
How to Apply for an EIN
Applying for an EIN is a simple process, but it’s not always quick. Depending on your state’s filing practices and which method you use, it could take anywhere from 7 to 90 business days to receive your number. For this reason, it’s important to file as soon as you set up your business entity. To apply for your EIN, you can choose one of the following processes:
Apply With IRS Form SS-4 Online
This is the preferred way for business owners to apply for their EIN. In many cases, the online application will generate an EIN instantly, meaning you won’t have to wait the standard 7 business days. To do this, simply navigate to the IRS website and complete the online application. You will need to complete form SS-4 and submit it through the online portal. This online process is available only to entities and individuals whose legal address is in the United States or one of its territories.
Apply With IRS Form SS-4 by Mail
If you’re uncomfortable using the online portal, you can apply by mail. This process obviously takes longer but is a viable option for business owners who prefer paper over digital applications. Keep in mind that this process can take up to 90 days, so you’ll want to plan ahead for that.
When applying by mail, you will need to print form SS-4 and fill it out in its entirety. Information requested on this form will include the name of the business entity and information about its incorporation. It will also require some personal information such as the name and social security number of the owner or manager.
Apply With IRS Form SS-4 by Fax
Applicants may also choose to fax their application directly to the IRS. If you choose this option, be sure that your form is completed with all the necessary information prior to faxing it. The IRS fax number for EIN applications is: (855)-642-6935
What if I Lost EIN Number?
If you’ve lost or misplaced your EIN, there are a few places you can look before calling the IRS. Try these options first:
- Check your email for the original confirmation of your EIN status. The IRS should have emailed you with your number when it was assigned.
- Check through your physical mail, as the IRS would have also mailed an EIN letter to your business address.
- If you opened any bank accounts or lines of credit for your business, they likely required an EIN to do so. You can check those documents for your number.
- If your business has ever filed taxes, your EIN number will be on the tax documents
If none of these methods are helpful in recovering your EIN, call the IRS number to make your inquiry. Be sure to have all of the pertinent business information available when you call. This information can be found on your Form SS-4. The IRS can be reached at: 1-800-829-4933
