FAQs
Being denied an EIN means your business likely already has one. You only need a new EIN if there has been a significant change to the business's structure. Your EIN application may be rejected if: Your LLC has the same name as another entity in the US (this is usually accompanied by reference number 101)
Is there a way to look up a company's EIN number? ›
Contact the company directly. If you have a legitimate business need for the EIN, this is typically the easiest way. If the company is publicly traded, it must disclose its EIN in Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings. You can access these filings through the EDGAR online system.
Why is it so hard to get an EIN number? ›
One of the most popular reasons the IRS might deny your EIN application is because the name of your company is not distinguishable from one or more companies already in existence.
What to do if I made a mistake on my EIN application? ›
Don't submit a new application if you made a mistake on your original EIN form. Instead, send a letter to the IRS explaining the error and providing the correct information. This letter should be signed by an authorized representative of your company and include your current EIN.
Why is it saying my EIN is invalid? ›
An EIN is nine digits in length with the format of XX-XXXXXXX. An invalid employer identification number usually results when the number you entered in the federal EIN section of your TaxAct® W-2: was taken from the state section of your physical Form W-2, doesn't match the federal EIN on your physical Form W-2, or.
What would stop me from getting an EIN number? ›
What is an EIN Application rejection? If your entity name is not unique and the IRS finds one that is similar, you may be denied an EIN. Limited Liability Companies and corporations can't file articles of organization or incorporation until there is a unique entity name for that specific state.
Can I verify an EIN number online? ›
You can look up another business's EIN using the SEC's Edgar system, as long as the business is a public company. To verify a charitable organization's EIN, you could check the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool. You may also be able to hire an online company to do the research on your behalf.
How to check EIN status online? ›
People who apply online through the IRS website won't need to check their application status because they'll receive their EIN instantly. If you applied by fax through Clerky, you'll have access to a timeline showing where you are in the process of obtaining your startup's EIN.
Is there a database for EIN? ›
For public companies, you can look up the EIN on the SEC's website. Search the company's name, and pull up the most recent 10-Q or 10K. All non-profit EINs are public information, and you can find them in the IRS database.
Can I get an EIN immediately? ›
A. Generally, you will receive your EIN immediately when applying online. When paper or faxed Forms SS-4 are submitted with missing information it will delay the issuance of your Employer Identification Number.
The processing timeframe for an EIN application received by mail is four weeks. Ensure that the Form SS-4 PDF contains all of the required information. If it is determined that the entity needs a new EIN, one will be assigned using the appropriate procedures for the entity type and mailed to the taxpayer.
Do I need an EIN for an LLC with no employees? ›
An LLC applies for an EIN by filing Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number. See Form SS-4 for information on applying for an EIN. A single-member LLC that is a disregarded entity that does not have employees and does not have an excise tax liability does not need an EIN.
Can I cancel my EIN and get a new one? ›
The IRS cannot cancel your EIN. Once an EIN has been assigned to a business entity, it becomes the permanent Federal taxpayer identification number for that entity. Regardless of whether the EIN is ever used to file Federal tax returns, the EIN is never reused or reassigned to another business entity.
How do I lookup my EIN number? ›
Your previously filed return should be notated with your EIN. Ask the IRS to search for your EIN by calling the Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933. The hours of operation are 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday.
What happens if you use the wrong EIN number? ›
Filing Form 945 with an incorrect name or EIN or failure to use the same name and EIN in all reporting and depos- iting of taxes may result in penalties and delays in processing your return.
What is a reason why your tax return would be rejected? ›
The IRS typically corrects math errors without rejecting a return. Tax returns get rejected frequently because a name or number on the return doesn't match information in the IRS or Social Security Administration databases. Typos and misspellings can be quick and easy to fix.
Why would a company not have an EIN? ›
A new LLC with one owner (single member LLC) is formed under state law, does not choose to be taxed as a corporation or S corporation, and has no employees or excise tax liability. Note: You may request an EIN for banking or state tax purposes, but an EIN is not required for federal tax purposes.
How can I check my EIN status? ›
Call the IRS.
- The best number to call is (+1) 800-829-4933. ...
- You can call during IRS Business hours: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5).
- The shortest wait times are typically from 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m ET. ...
- Depending on your phone service and where you are located, there may be fees when calling the IRS.
Can an EIN be verified? ›
All businesses in the US – including charities and nonprofits – must have a valid EIN before they begin operations. Verifying a business's EIN number usually involves cross-checking government databases, ordering reports from credit bureaus, and/or contacting the business directly.