When a person passes away, the estate may need its own Employer Identification Number (EIN)—also known as a Federal Tax ID Number—to handle financial and tax matters. If you’ve been named executor or personal representative, knowing how to get an EIN for an estate is a critical step.
Why an Estate Needs an EIN
An estate must obtain an EIN to:
- Open an estate bank account
- File estate income tax returns (Form 1041)
- Handle investments, real estate, or business income left by the deceased
Steps to Get an EIN for an Estate
1. Gather Required Information
You’ll need:
- Deceased person’s name and Social Security Number
- Executor’s name, address, and contact info
- County and state of probate
- Date of death
2. Apply Online (Fastest)
Visit the IRS EIN Assistant and choose “Estate” as the legal structure. Follow the prompts, and receive your EIN instantly after submitting.
Online applications are only available Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Eastern Time.
3. Apply by Fax or Mail (If Not Applying Online)
- Complete Form SS-4
- Fax it to (855) 641-6935 or mail to the address listed on the IRS website
- Processing takes ~4–5 business days via fax or several weeks by mail
Important Notes
- The executor or personal representative must apply—this is not something a bank or law firm should do on your behalf without your direction.
- Getting an EIN for an estate is free when applying directly with the IRS.
Conclusion
Understanding how to get an EIN for an estate ensures smooth handling of financial and tax matters during the probate process. Apply online for fast results, or use mail/fax options if needed. For EIN help, visit FormLLC.us for reliable filing support.
