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Get an EIN (it is free)

The federal tax ID for your business, issued by the IRS at no cost.

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By the Cheap Cheap Websites team · Updated October 6, 2026

The short answer

An EIN (employer identification number) is a free federal tax ID from the IRS. Employers, partnerships, corporations and most LLCs need one, and banks usually ask for it. Apply directly on IRS.gov; the online application issues the number right away when completed. Never pay a website to get one.

Who needs an EIN

  • Businesses with employees
  • Corporations and partnerships
  • Multi-member LLCs (and many single-member LLCs for banking)
  • Businesses filing certain excise or employment taxes
  • Sole proprietors who want to avoid giving out their SSN (optional for many)

How to apply

  1. Use the official IRS site. The online EIN application is on IRS.gov. Third-party sites charge for the same free service.
  2. Have your details ready. Legal name, entity type, responsible party SSN or ITIN, address, reason for applying.
  3. Complete in one session. The IRS online session times out if left idle.
  4. Save the confirmation. Download and keep the EIN confirmation letter.

After you have the EIN

  • Open your business bank account
  • Register for state taxes if needed
  • Set up payroll if hiring
  • Use it on invoices and vendor forms instead of your SSN

Worked example

After forming an LLC, Maya applies for an EIN on IRS.gov during business hours. She enters the legal name exactly as on her formation documents and receives the EIN at the end of the session. She saves the confirmation letter as a PDF in her business documents folder and uses the EIN to open a business bank account and set up payroll later.

Common mistakes

  • Paying a website for an EIN that the IRS issues free
  • Entering a legal name that doesn't match registration
  • Losing the confirmation letter

Where you'll use the EIN

You'll use the EIN on bank applications, tax filings, payroll setup, some license applications, supplier accounts and W-9 forms for clients. Keep the confirmation letter in your records folder so you can find it quickly.

Common questions

How much does an EIN cost?

Nothing. The IRS issues EINs for free.

How long does it take?

Online applications get the number immediately when completed during the IRS online hours.

Do I need an EIN for an LLC?

Most multi-member LLCs do; single-member LLCs often need one for banking or employees. Check the IRS guidance.

What if I lose my EIN?

The IRS explains how to find it on past documents or by contacting them; keep the confirmation letter safe.

Can I apply on someone else's behalf?

A third party can apply with authorization, following IRS instructions.

Do I need a new EIN if I change structure?

In some cases, such as changing from sole proprietor to LLC or corporation. The IRS explains when.

Sources

Sources checked October 6, 2026. Rules, fees and forms change; confirm details with the agency or provider before you act. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.

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