EINs are used to identify the tax accounts of employers, certain sole proprietors, corporations, partnerships, estates, trusts, and other entities.

If you don't already have an EIN, you need to get one if you:

1. Have employees,

2. Have a Keogh plan,

3. Operate your business as a corporation or partnership, or

4. File returns for:

   1. Employment taxes,

   2. Excise taxes, or

   3. Alcohol, tobacco, or firearms taxes.

How to get an EIN. You can get an EIN either through the mail or by telephone. But first you must fill out Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number. You can get Form SS-4 at SSA offices or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-3676.

When to apply. You should apply for an EIN early enough to receive the number by the time you must file a return or statement or make a tax deposit. If you apply by telephone, you can get an EIN immediately. If you apply by mail, file Form SS-4 at least 4 to 5 weeks before you need an EIN.

If you do not receive your EIN by the time a return is due, file your return anyway. Write "Applied for" and the date you applied for the number in the space for the EIN.

More than one EIN. You should have only one EIN. If you have more than one EIN and are not sure which to use, contact the Internal Revenue Service Center where you file your return. Give the numbers you have, the name and address to which each was assigned, and the address of your main place of business. The IRS will tell you which number to use.

More information. For more information about EINs, get Publication 1635, Understanding Your EIN.

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This page last modified: 28 Mar 2008