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Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) / Tax ID Number

Understanding What, Where, When & Hows of Your Business EIN

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How to Get a Tax ID Number

The SS-4 is the IRS form used to apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number), also known as a Tax ID number. Think of the EIN as a Social Security Number for your business. It’s typically required to open a business bank account and manage payroll for your employees. Legalcrystal will secure your federal EIN electronically and send it to you via email within one business day, making the process fast and hassle-free.

What is an Employer Identification Number (EIN)?

Also referred to as a "Tax ID number," the EIN is a federal tax ID for your business, functioning similarly to a Social Security Number. Your EIN is essential for filing tax returns, opening a business bank account, managing employee wages and payroll, and building credit for your company. It also helps maintain your business’s legal standing as an official entity.

Do You Need a Federal EIN for Your Business Entity?

In most cases, unless your business is a sole proprietorship with no employees and no separate legal entity, you will need an EIN. Even if you own a single-member LLC with simple accounting, you may be able to use your personal Social Security Number for tax purposes and client payments. However, even the simplest businesses can benefit from obtaining an EIN, as it serves as a tax ID for your LLC or other corporate entity, providing added credibility and ease in handling business transactions.

Common questions about obtaining an EIN / Tax ID Number

Yes, under most circumstances business entities other than DBAs must present an EIN along with the filed Articles of Organization or Incorporation in order for an account to be opened.
If you already have an EIN, and the organization or ownership of your business changes, you may need to apply for a new number. Some of the circumstances under which a new number is required are as follows:
If it is a stand-alone order for an existing entity we can obtain and email the EIN within one business day.
The SS4 is the IRS form required to obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number, frequently called a Tax ID number). The EIN/Tax ID number can be thought of as a Social Security Number for your business. It is usually required to open a bank account in the name of the business and to properly pay and account for any payroll employees of your company.