How Long Does It Take to Get a Tax ID Number (EIN)?
Quick Answer
Instantly online, 4 business days by fax, or 4–5 weeks by mail. An Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is free to obtain.
Typical Duration
Quick Answer
You can get a Tax ID Number (EIN) instantly by applying online through the IRS website. Fax applications take about 4 business days, and mail applications take 4–5 weeks. The EIN is free regardless of how you apply – avoid third-party sites that charge a fee for what is a free government service.
Processing Times by Application Method
| Method | Processing Time | Availability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| IRS online application | Instant | Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–10 p.m. ET | Free |
| Fax (Form SS-4) | 4 business days | Anytime | Free |
| Mail (Form SS-4) | 4–5 weeks | Anytime | Free |
| Telephone (international) | Same day | Mon–Fri, 6 a.m.–11 p.m. ET | Free |
The online application is the fastest and most popular method. You receive your EIN immediately upon completing the form, and you can download the confirmation letter on the spot.
What Is an EIN?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) – also called a Federal Tax ID Number – is a nine-digit number (formatted as XX-XXXXXXX) assigned by the IRS. It functions like a Social Security number for your business and is used for:
- Filing business tax returns
- Opening a business bank account
- Hiring employees and reporting payroll taxes
- Applying for business licenses and permits
- Establishing business credit
Who Needs an EIN?
| Entity Type | EIN Required? |
|---|---|
| LLC (multi-member) | Yes |
| LLC (single-member with employees) | Yes |
| LLC (single-member, no employees) | Optional but recommended |
| Corporation (S-Corp or C-Corp) | Yes |
| Partnership | Yes |
| Nonprofit organization | Yes |
| Sole proprietor with employees | Yes |
| Sole proprietor without employees | Optional (can use SSN) |
| Trust or estate | Yes |
Even if an EIN is optional, getting one is recommended to protect your Social Security number and establish your business as a separate entity.
How to Apply Online (Step by Step)
- Go to the IRS EIN Assistant at irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online.
- Select your entity type (LLC, corporation, sole proprietor, etc.).
- Provide the responsible party’s information (name, SSN or ITIN, address).
- Answer questions about your business activities and expected employees.
- Receive your EIN immediately on screen.
- Download and save the confirmation letter (CP 575) – the IRS only displays it once online.
The entire process takes about 10–15 minutes.
EIN vs. Other Tax ID Numbers
| ID Type | Issued By | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| EIN (Employer Identification Number) | IRS | Business identification and federal taxes |
| SSN (Social Security Number) | SSA | Individual identification |
| ITIN (Individual Taxpayer ID Number) | IRS | Tax filing for individuals not eligible for SSN |
| State Tax ID | State revenue dept. | State income and sales tax |
Note that an EIN is a federal ID. Many states also require a separate state tax ID number for sales tax, payroll tax, or state income tax. State tax IDs typically take 1–4 weeks to receive.
Tips and Common Mistakes
- Apply online for instant results – do not wait for the mail option unless you must.
- Have your SSN or ITIN ready – the responsible party must provide one.
- Save the confirmation letter immediately – you can only download it once from the online session.
- Do not pay a third-party service – the IRS does not charge for an EIN. Sites that charge $50–$200 are unnecessary.
- Know your entity type before starting – selecting the wrong classification creates complications.
- Apply for your state tax ID at the same time to avoid delays when opening a bank account or registering for sales tax.