How to Get a Business Tax ID

If you run a small business, you need a federal tax ID number (or EIN number). Much like a social security number, this nine-digit ID is assigned only once and will never be redistributed to anyone else. A tax ID ensures your ability to legally pay your employees (and get up to $26,000 back per employee with the ERC tax credit), file for your annual tax return, apply for business licenses, and participate in business banking. Let’s go over how to get a business tax ID, who is required to have one, and a few reasons you might want to apply for one—even if you don’t have to.

A tax ID is an identification number required by the internal revenue service (IRS) for almost all businesses. It’s a unique nine-digit number that is only assigned once (even if you don’t end up using it for long), and it acts as a sort of social security number for your business.

Any business that is responsible for paying employees must have a tax ID. (You can't even set up your payroll software and start paying employees until you have one.) Many sole proprietors choose to apply for one as well. Even if you don't pay employees, a tax ID for your business makes it easier to keep your personal and business finances separate.

An employer identification number (EIN) is the same thing as a tax ID number, and the two are often used interchangeably. When filling out tax information, you may either see “tax ID” or EIN listed, but don’t worry—it’s the same number!

Taxes can be overwhelming, but luckily, acquiring a tax ID is relatively simple and free. Here are a few ways to apply.

The easiest way to get a business tax ID is to apply for one on the IRS website. You’ll see several business entity type options at first, and small businesses typically fall into one of the following categories:

• Sole proprietor: You own and operate a business by yourself and have no employees
• LLC: A limited liability company. This entity type protects you and any partners or employees from personal liability and provides tax options.
• Corporation: A business recognized as a separate legal entity that can provide stock options.
• Partnership: Two or more people agree to share liability and assets.

If your business is an LLC, corporation, or partnership, you must register it with both the state and federal government before moving forward with a tax ID application.

Once you’ve selected your business type, the application is only one page long and shouldn’t take more than a few minutes to complete.

Information you need when you apply:

• Company name and business address
• Your name
• Your social security number
• Reason for applying
• Phone number and email address

Once you submit your application, you should receive a downloadable file with your employer identification number information. Save this file to your computer and print out a hard copy for your records as well.

If you prefer to do business over the phone, you also have the option of applying for a tax ID through the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line (800-829-4933).

The third option for applying for a tax ID is through mail or fax. With this option, you must complete an SS-4 tax form and send it to the Internal Revenue Service physical address.

If all of this still feels a bit overwhelming, or you have questions about your specific application, there are some resources to help you apply for a tax ID as well.

• Accountant

If you’re already working with an accountant for your small business, ask them to help you apply for an EIN number.

• Financial institution

You can also ask for help from a financial institution like your personal bank or credit union.

• The tax helpline

As mentioned above, the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line (800-829-4933) is an available resource for tax ID questions. This office is typically open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET.

If you’re not required to get a tax ID, there are a few reasons you may still want to file for one.

1. You plan on paying employees.

If there’s a chance you might take on employees in the future—even just one or two—getting a tax ID in advance is a smart move to help you stay ahead.

2. You want added privacy.

Because a tax ID acts as the main identification for your business, obtaining one can be helpful in protecting your personal information. With an EIN, you won’t need to use your personal social security number for business-related purposes.

3. You want to apply for business cards or loans.

Having a tax ID number is also helpful if you want to apply for a business credit card or a small-business loan.

Getting a tax ID is crucial for small-business owners—especially if you’re responsible for any employees. If you don’t have one already, apply for free as soon as possible through the IRS to ensure tax compliance. Even if you’re not required to get a tax ID as a sole proprietor, it can still be a smart business move for added personal security, and eligibility for credit cards and loans.

Want to learn more about employer identification numbers? Check out Do You Need an Employer Identification Number (EIN)? on Business.org.

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