If you’re wondering, “Are EIN numbers public?”—the answer is yes, but with limits. EINs (Employer Identification Numbers) are issued by the IRS and, in many cases, are part of public record, especially for certain types of businesses.
When Are EIN Numbers Public?
EINs are publicly accessible in the following scenarios:
- Nonprofit organizations: Their EIN is published on tax-exempt filings like Form 990
- SEC-registered businesses: EINs may appear on official SEC filings
- Public business directories or databases
- State databases: Some states list EINs in searchable business registries
However, private businesses, sole proprietors, or LLCs that do not disclose their EIN through public filings may not have publicly available EINs.
Why Are EINs Public?
EINs help:
- Identify business entities
- Increase transparency in business operations
- Allow verification of nonprofit status or licensing
How to Look Up an EIN
You can look up EINs through:
- IRS Exempt Organization Search (for nonprofits)
- Secretary of State websites (business registries)
- SEC EDGAR database (for public corporations)
For private companies, finding the EIN usually requires permission or legitimate business need.
Is It Safe to Share an EIN?
EINs are less sensitive than SSNs but still should be protected. Avoid sharing your business’s EIN unless required for:
- Tax reporting
- Bank account setup
- Licensing or applications
Final Thoughts
So, are EIN numbers public? In many cases, yes—especially for nonprofits and corporations. But private business owners should still safeguard their EIN to avoid fraud or misuse. Need help securing or finding your EIN? Visit FormLLC.us for expert assistance.
