All formsLegal Name: Enter the legal name of the entity (or your name for sole proprietorships)
Trade Name: Enter your DBA name if different from the legal name
Entity Type: Select the correct type — LLC, Corporation, Partnership, Sole Proprietor, Trust, Estate, etc.
Reason for Applying: New business, hiring employees, banking, compliance, etc.
Date Business Started: The date you began or acquired the business
Principal Activity: Describe what your business does
Number of Employees Expected: Estimate for the first 12 months
Online: Apply at irs.gov — instant EIN issuance (available M-F, 7am-10pm ET)
Fax: Fax to the IRS — receive EIN in 4 business days
Mail: Mail to the IRS — receive EIN in 4-5 weeks
Taxpdf
SS-4 Application for EIN
Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026
Application for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Required for businesses to hire employees, open bank accounts, and file tax returns.
PDF TemplateUse the instructions below to complete this form
Instructions
Instructions
How to Apply:
Note: You can only apply for one EIN per responsible party per day online. The service is free — do not pay a third party.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.