Use the exact legal record
The business name and entity details should match the formation documents. A mismatch can delay the EIN application.
1. Confirm the filing decision
- Why the entity needs an EIN.
- Whether it already has an EIN.
- Whether an ownership or structure change requires a new number.
- Whether the state entity formation is complete.
2. Prepare the entity details
- Legal name exactly as formed or registered.
- Trade name or “doing business as” name, if applicable.
- Mailing and physical addresses.
- County and state of the principal business location.
- Entity type and formation jurisdiction.
- Business start or acquisition date and accounting-year closing month.
3. Prepare responsible-party information
- Full legal name.
- SSN or ITIN, unless a government-entity exception applies.
- Role and authority over the entity and its assets.
- Signed authorization for a third-party designee, when used.
4. Prepare tax and activity details
- Reason for the application.
- Expected number of employees and first wage date.
- Principal activity, products, or services.
- Whether employment or excise-tax returns will be filed.
- Any earlier EIN connected to the entity.
5. Choose the official channel
- IRS online application for eligible U.S. and territory applicants.
- Current Form SS-4 by fax or mail.
- International telephone, fax, or mail route only when the principal place of business is outside the United States and its territories.
6. Before submitting
- Use the current Form SS-4 and instructions.
- Check spelling, entity classification, dates, and addresses.
- Do not list a nominee as the responsible party.
- Do not submit through more than one method.
- Remember the one-EIN-per-responsible-party daily limit.
7. After assignment
- Print or save the EIN assignment notice.
- Store it with permanent formation and tax records.
- Confirm the number before providing it to a bank, payroll provider, or agency.
- Use Form 8822-B for later address, location, or responsible-party changes when required.