How to Get a Tax Identification Number

A tax identification number is an IRS-issued identifier for businesses to use when interacting with federal agencies.   Any business that pays taxes will need this identification number to use when filling out tax forms.  There are several ways to obtain a tax identification number for businesses that do not have one.

Apply in Person

1. Go to IRS website. 


2. Click on 'Contact IRS' above the Search Box.


3. Click on 'Contact Your Local IRS Office.'


4. On the map near the bottom of the screen click on your respective state to find the nearest local IRS office.  


5. Gather a form of photo identification and your social security number.


6. Go to the nearest local IRS office in person.

Apply through Mail

1. Go to the IRS website.  


2. Click 'Forms and Publications' on the upper left of the page.  


3. Under 'Download Forms and Publications By,' there is a link titled 'All Tax Products.'  Click on this link.


4. In the FIND Box, enter "ss-4."


5. Click on 'Form SS-4.'


6. Print out Form SS-4.


7. Fill Form SS-4 out. Include any required documentation.


8. Postmark envelope and send to IRS.

Apply Online

1. Go to IRS website.


2. Find 'Business' tab near top of page. 


3. Click on 'Apply Online Now' link roughly three-quarters of way down the page. You will now be presented with an online version of the SS-4 form.


4. Complete the form and hit submit. You will receive confirmation the form has been received.

Apply by Telephone 

1. Locate a telephone. Call the Business and Specialty Tax Line at (800) 829-4933. 


2. Talk with a representative and explain that would like to apply for a tax ID number. The representative will likely ask for your social security number and basic information about your business so prepare accordingly.  

Apply via Fax

1. In the 'Apply Through Mail' section above, follow steps 1-7.


2. Send completed fax to IRS at (859) 669-5760. In the 'attention' line put 'EIN information.'  

A tax identification number can be procured immediately through online, telephone or face-to-face application.  Applications done through mail will take four weeks to process.  Inquiries via fax machine will be handled within four days.  

Once you receive a tax identification number, you can now pay taxes.  Congratulations!