How to Apply for an EIN in the United States (2025 Guide)

Step-by-step EIN application process explained for entrepreneurs launching a business in the U.S. in 2025.

🔐 What Is an EIN?

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) to businesses operating in the United States. It's used to identify a business entity for tax reporting and financial purposes. Think of it as the Social Security number for your business.

📅 When Do You Need an EIN?

You need an EIN if:

You are forming an LLC, Corporation, or Partnership

You will hire employees

You want to open a business bank account in the U.S.

You plan to apply for business credit or Stripe/PayPal accounts

You are a non-U.S. resident starting a U.S. company

🔍 Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an EIN in 2025

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

You must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, or EIN) to apply online. Non-U.S. residents without an SSN/ITIN must apply via fax or mail.

Step 2: Choose Your Entity Type

Select the appropriate legal structure of your business:

Sole Proprietor

Partnership

LLC

Corporation (C-Corp, S-Corp)

Non-Profit Organization

Step 3: Apply Online (If You Have SSN/ITIN)

Visit the IRS website

The application is only available Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 10 PM EST.

Fill out the online form and receive your EIN instantly after submission.

Step 4: Apply via Fax or Mail (If You Do NOT Have SSN/ITIN)

Complete and fax Form SS-4

Or mail to:

Internal Revenue Service

Processing time: 4-7 weeks by mail, 1-2 weeks by fax.

👨‍💼 What You Need to Provide

Legal name of the business and address

Name of responsible party (person who controls the business)

Type of entity and reason for applying

Number of employees (estimate)

Expected start date of operations

❗ Common Mistakes to Avoid

-Submitting Form SS-4 with missing fields

-Applying online without proper documentation

-Using a fake SSN/ITIN

-Choosing the wrong entity type

-✅ Benefits of Having an EIN

-Open a U.S. business bank account

-Build business credit

-Hire employees

-Apply for Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, etc.

-File taxes with the IRS legally