Introduction
If you’re researching a business or managing tax-related tasks, you may wonder: Are federal EIN numbers public record? The answer depends on the type of business and the context. In this guide, we explain when and how an Employer Identification Number (EIN) may be publicly accessible.
What Is an EIN?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a 9-digit number issued by the IRS to identify businesses for tax and administrative purposes. It functions much like a Social Security Number, but for companies.
Are Federal EINs Public Record?
In general, EINs are not classified as public record in the same way that business names or licenses are. However, some EINs do appear in publicly accessible documents. Here’s when and how:
1. Public Documents and Filings
- Nonprofits: EINs are included in IRS Form 990, which is publicly available.
- SEC Filings: Public corporations must disclose EINs in 10-K, 8-K, or S-1 filings.
- Business Registrations: State-level business records sometimes list EINs, especially for corporations and LLCs.
2. Why Some EINs Are Accessible
- Government transparency (especially for nonprofits)
- Investor or donor verification
- Regulatory filings required by law
Where to Search for Public EINs
Here are reliable places to check:
- IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search – For nonprofits
- SEC EDGAR Database – For public companies
- State Secretary of State websites – For some LLCs and corporations
- Business databases like OpenCorporates, Manta, or Bizapedia
When EINs Are Not Public
- Private businesses and sole proprietorships usually don’t have EINs published publicly.
- The IRS does not maintain a searchable EIN database for the public.
If you need an EIN for official or financial purposes (e.g., issuing a 1099), you must request it directly from the business.
Conclusion
So, are federal EIN numbers public record? Technically, no, but they can appear in publicly filed documents depending on the entity type. For nonprofits and public companies, EINs are usually easy to find. For private entities, you may need to ask directly or use business lookup services.
