How to Get a Tax ID Number
Businesses that are growing fast find themselves needing a federal tax ID number. You can apply for one by filling out a form called the IRS form SS-4 or applying online. Most businesses choose to apply online as it gives them their federal tax id number immediately. There is no waiting for the postal service.
- Go online to the IRS website. The IRS website is the only place online that you can apply for a federal tax id number. Be wary of other sites that claim they can do it for you.
- Find the section on the IRS website where you can apply for a federal tax id number. You will find this information under the business tab on the website.
- Find the link that says Employer ID Numbers. The IRS limits people on the amount of federal tax id numbers that they can apply for in one day. Currently, the limit is five per person per day. This is regardless of how you choose to file.
- Apply for a federal tax id number online through the IRS website. Applying online gives you your federal tax id number immediately. The application process is very simple and straightforward.
- Answer the question that the online application asks you. The online application will ask you for the name of your business, your social security number, the address where your business is located and the estimated yearly profits of your business.
- Proofread your application answers carefully. You will not be able to change your business name at a later date. You must make sure that everything is entered in correctly.
- Submit the information. You will receive an instant confirmation that your application was received successfully.
- Print the confirmation notice. You can also have the confirmation notice emailed to you. The confirmation notice will include your federal tax id number for your business.
- Check your mailbox in about one week. The IRS will mail an official copy of the confirmation notice. The information will be the same information provided in the copy that you printed offline.