An EIN (or Tax ID) is how the IRS identifies your business. If you are a single-member LLC, you can either obtain an EIN or use your SSN. So, if you have set up a single member LLC through Drafted Legal or elsewhere, you can still file your taxes correctly without an EIN. But, if an EIN is right for you, here is our guide on how to obtain your EIN (and avoid scams).  

The first step in obtaining an EIN Number will be to establish that your principal business is located in the United States or U.S. Territories. There can only be one person who applies for the EIN number, and that person must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN, SSN, EIN). That person must also be a responsible party that ultimately owns or controls the entity or someone who exercises ultimate control over the entity.

File for an EIN Online

This is what I would recommend. It takes about 5 minutes and you obtain the EIN instantaneously. Be sure to use the IRS website (if you are not using an attorney or CPA). This will allow you to receive your EIN immediately upon completion with a confirmation notice that is able to be downloaded, saved, or printed. Applications cannot be processed if the responsible party is an entity that already has an EIN number previously obtained through the IRS website. 

Click here for the direct IRS website

Publication 15 provides information on employer tax responsibilities related to taxable wages, employment tax withholding and which tax returns must be filed. Publication 15 can be found on IRS.gov as well. More complex issues are discussed in Publication 15-A and tax treatment of many employee benefits can be found in Publication 15.

File for an EIN by Fax

Taxpayers may also fax a completed Form SS-4 application to the IRS EIN Operation in Cincinnati, Ohio 45999 (Fax: 855-641-6935). If a new EIN number is needed for an entity, one will be assigned by employing the appropriate procedures for the entity type. A fax with the EIN Number will be received within four days of the filing of the application for the EIN Number. 

File for an EIN by mail

Applications may also be submitted by mail as well. The same form is used to apply by mail and fax. The mailed application must go to the PO Box address listed on the IRS website for the IRS in Cincinnati, Ohio. Only one application may be submitted per day.