Introduction
Starting a business, managing an estate, or hiring employees in the Sunshine State? One of your first steps is obtaining a Tax Identification Number (TIN). If you’re wondering how do you get a tax ID number in Florida, this blog explains how to get both your federal EIN and your Florida state tax ID—step by step.
What Is a Tax ID Number?
A Tax Identification Number (TIN) refers to several types of tax numbers, but most commonly:
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) – issued by the IRS
- Florida State Tax ID – issued by the Florida Department of Revenue (DOR)
Both are essential for businesses and legal entities operating in Florida.
Who Needs a Tax ID in Florida?
You need a tax ID if you:
- Form a corporation, LLC, or partnership
- Hire employees
- Open a business bank account
- File federal or state taxes
- Sell goods/services subject to Florida sales tax
- Manage a trust or estate
Step 1: Get a Federal EIN from the IRS
Apply Online (Fastest Method)
- Go to the IRS EIN Assistant:
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online - Fill out the form and submit
- EIN is issued instantly
Available Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–10 p.m. ET
You’ll receive a confirmation letter (CP 575) as proof
Other Options:
- Fax Form SS-4 to 855-641-6935 (4–7 days turnaround)
- Mail Form SS-4 to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999 (4–6 weeks turnaround)
Step 2: Get a Florida State Tax ID Number
If you will collect sales tax, have employees, or owe state taxes, you must register with the Florida Department of Revenue (DOR).
Apply Online via Florida DOR:
- Visit: https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/registration
- Select “Register a New Business”
- Complete the Florida Business Tax Application (Form DR-1)
- Get your Florida Certificate of Registration and state tax ID number after approval
Documents Needed
- Legal name and address of your business
- Responsible party’s SSN or ITIN
- Nature of business activities
- Federal EIN (if already obtained)
- Business entity details (LLC, Corp, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the federal EIN the same as the Florida state tax ID?
A: No. The EIN is for federal purposes. Florida’s state tax ID is required separately for state business taxes.
Q: How much does it cost to get a tax ID number in Florida?
A: Applying for both an EIN and a Florida state tax ID is free.
Q: How long does it take?
- EIN: Instantly online
- Florida Tax ID: Usually 2–3 business days
Conclusion
If you’re asking how do you get a tax ID number in Florida, the process is straightforward:
- Apply for a Federal EIN via the IRS
- Register for a Florida State Tax ID through the Department of Revenue
