Contents
- What is an EIN number and why do I need one for my business?
- How do I apply for an EIN number?
- What information do I need to apply for an EIN number?
- How long does it take to get an EIN number?
- Can I get an EIN number for my business online?
- How much does it cost to get an EIN number?
- Do I need an EIN number if I am a sole proprietor?
- Do I need an EIN number if I am a partnership?
- Do I need an EIN number if I am a corporation?
- How can I use my EIN number?
If you’re thinking of starting a business, one of the first things you’ll need to do is get a EIN number. Here’s a quick guide on how to get one.
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What is an EIN number and why do I need one for my business?
An EIN number is a nine-digit number that the IRS assigns to businesses. It is also known as a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). Businesses need an EIN for many reasons, such as opening a business bank account, applying for business licenses and permits, and filing business tax returns.
Sole proprietorships and partnerships that do not have any employees are not required to have an EIN. However, they may choose to obtain one for the same reasons that other businesses need one.
If you are a sole proprietor or partnership without any employees, you can apply for an EIN online, by fax, or by mail.
How do I apply for an EIN number?
The first step in applying for an EIN number is to determine whether you are eligible. To be eligible, you must be a business entity with a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). Business entities include sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, trusts, and estates. You can find more information about business entities here.
If you are eligible, you can apply for your EIN number online, by fax, or by mail. The fastest and most convenient way to apply is online; you can complete the application in just a few minutes. You can also apply by fax or by mail, but it will take longer to receive your EIN number if you apply using one of these methods.
Once you have applied for your EIN number, you will need to use it on all of your business documents and tax filings. It is important to keep your EIN number confidential and to not share it with anyone who does not need it.
What information do I need to apply for an EIN number?
Generally, businesses need an EIN in order to open a bank account and file tax returns.
There are a few circumstances where you might not need an EIN. For example, if your business is a sole proprietorship with no employees, you generally don’t need an EIN. Partnerships, LLCs, and corporations almost always need an EIN.
When applying for an EIN, you will need the following information:
-The legal name of your business
-The business structure of your company (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, etc.)
-The principal activity or activities of your business
-The name and address of your company’s contact person
How long does it take to get an EIN number?
The average processing time for an EIN application is 4 to 6 weeks. You can check the status of your EIN application by calling the IRS at (800) 829-4933.
Can I get an EIN number for my business online?
You can get an EIN number for your business online through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website. You will need to provide some basic information about your business, such as your business name and address, before you can obtain your EIN.
How much does it cost to get an EIN number?
The cost of getting an EIN number for your business varies depending on the structure of your business. If you are a sole proprietor, you can get an EIN for free from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If you have a partnership or corporation, you will need to pay a fee to get an EIN. The cost of an EIN is $75 if you apply online, $85 if you apply by fax, and $100 if you apply by mail.
Do I need an EIN number if I am a sole proprietor?
If you are a sole proprietor or single-member LLC, you generally don’t need an EIN. You can use your Social Security number instead. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if you file any of the following returns, you must have an EIN.
Form 1041 (United States Income Tax Return for Estates and Trusts)
Form 1120 (U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return)
Form 1120S (U.S. Income Tax Return for an S Corporation)
Partnership Form 1065
Do I need an EIN number if I am a partnership?
Generally, partnerships must have an EIN. This is true whether the partnership is for profit or non-profit, domestic or foreign, large or small. The sole exception to this rule is a qualified real estate investment trust (REIT) or regulated investment company (RIC). These organizations are required to file Form 1065, “U.S. Return of Partnership Income,” but they are not required to have an EIN.
Do I need an EIN number if I am a corporation?
Yes, if you are a corporation, you will need an EIN number from the IRS. You will use this number to identify your business on all of your tax filings.
How can I use my EIN number?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to identify a business entity. When starting a new business, you may apply for an EIN in various ways:
-Online: The easiest way to apply for an EIN is online through the IRS website. Applying online is free, fast, and safe.
-By fax: You can apply for an EIN by faxing Form SS-4 to the IRS. Include a cover sheet that includes your name, address, telephone number and fax number. This method generally takes about four days for the IRS to process your application.
-By mail: You can apply for an EIN by mailing Form SS-4 to the address listed on the form. This method takes about four weeks for the IRS to process your application.