Free EIN Guide: Get Your Business Tax ID in Minutes
Learn how to get your EIN (Employer Identification Number) for free from the IRS. Step-by-step instructions for LLC owners and small businesses.
What is an EIN (Employer Identification Number)?
Business Tax ID
An EIN is a unique 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Think of it as a Social Security Number for your business.
- Required for most LLCs
- Free to obtain from the IRS
- Used for business bank accounts
- Required for hiring employees
When You Need One
Most LLCs need an EIN, especially if you plan to open a business bank account or hire employees.
- Opening a business bank account
- Hiring employees or contractors
- Filing business tax returns
- Applying for business credit
How to Get Your EIN for Free
Gather Required Information
Before applying, make sure you have all the necessary information ready.
Business Information:
- • Legal business name
- • Business address
- • Type of business entity
- • Date business started
Personal Information:
- • Your Social Security Number
- • Your name and address
- • Your phone number
- • Email address
Apply Online (Recommended)
The fastest and easiest way to get your EIN is through the IRS website.
Steps:
- • Go to IRS.gov/EIN
- • Click "Apply Online Now"
- • Complete the application
- • Receive EIN immediately
Benefits:
- • Instant EIN number
- • No waiting time
- • Free service
- • Available 24/7
Alternative Methods
If you can't apply online, there are other options available.
By Phone:
- • Call (800) 829-4933
- • Available 6am-11pm ET
- • Monday through Friday
- • Receive EIN immediately
By Mail/Fax:
- • Download Form SS-4
- • Fill out completely
- • Mail or fax to IRS
- • Wait 4-6 weeks
Common EIN Application Mistakes to Avoid
Using Personal SSN for Business
Never use your personal Social Security Number for business transactions once you have an EIN.
What NOT to do:
- • Use SSN on business checks
- • Give SSN to vendors
- • Use SSN for business credit
- • Mix personal and business taxes
What to do instead:
- • Use EIN for all business transactions
- • Keep SSN private
- • Use EIN for business credit
- • Separate personal and business finances
Not Getting EIN Early Enough
Get your EIN as soon as you form your LLC to avoid delays in opening bank accounts or hiring employees.
- Apply for EIN immediately after LLC formation
- Use EIN for business bank account
- Provide EIN to vendors and clients
- Use EIN for all business tax filings
Waiting Too Long to Apply
You can apply for an EIN as soon as you have your LLC formation documents. Don't wait until you need it.
Apply immediately if:
- • You have LLC formation documents
- • You plan to open a business account
- • You want to hire employees
- • You need business credit
Don't wait if:
- • You need to open bank account
- • You want to hire contractors
- • You need business credit cards
- • You're filing business taxes
What to Do After Getting Your EIN
Open Business Bank Account
Use your EIN to open a dedicated business checking account. This helps maintain liability protection.
Apply for Business Credit
Use your EIN to establish business credit separate from your personal credit.
File Business Taxes
Use your EIN for all business tax filings, including quarterly estimated taxes.
Need help setting up your LLC? Our step-by-step guide shows you exactly what to do.
How Start With Genie Helps You Get Your EIN
Step-by-Step Guidance
We provide detailed instructions for getting your EIN, including exactly what information you need.
Complete Setup
Our LLC formation process includes guidance on getting your EIN and setting up proper business banking.
Flat $49 Rate
No hidden fees or upsells. Just $49 for everything you need to form your LLC and get started properly.
Ready to form your LLC? Our EIN recovery guide helps if you forgot to get one.