How Do I Get a Federal Tax ID Number?

You get a Federal Tax ID Number, or Employer ID Number (EIN), from the IRS. You can apply through their website, by phone, fax or mail. For fastest service, apply online. It can take up to five weeks to get your EIN if you apply by mail.

The EIN you receive is your permanent number and can be used for business tasks such as opening a business bank account, applying for a business license or filing a tax return.

If you don't know if you need a Federal Tax ID Number for your business, answer these questions.

If you already have a Tax ID Number, but have misplaced it, you can call the Business and Specialty Tax Line at (800) 829-4933 and have them look it up for you.

Apply for an EIN