Yes, you can look up the EIN (Employer Identification Number) for a business, but only in certain cases and through proper channels. EINs are sometimes publicly available, especially for nonprofit organizations and public corporations, but private company EINs are generally harder to access.
Ways to Find a Business’s EIN
1. Search the Company’s Website or Documents
Some businesses publish their EIN on invoices, tax forms, or contact pages—especially nonprofits on donation pages.
2. Use IRS Resources (For Nonprofits)
Visit the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search to find EINs for charities and nonprofits:
https://apps.irs.gov/app/eos/
3. Check SEC Filings
For publicly traded companies, you can search SEC filings at sec.gov. EINs are often listed on 10-K or 8-K reports.
4. Contact the Business Directly
If you’re doing business with the company, they may provide the EIN upon request—especially for tax or compliance purposes.
5. Use Third-Party Business Databases
Sites like Dun & Bradstreet, Melissa Data, or LexisNexis may have EIN information (some may charge a fee).
Can You Look Up Any EIN?
No. EINs are not always public records, especially for small, privately held businesses. The IRS will not disclose a business’s EIN without proper authorization due to privacy laws.
Conclusion
So, can I look up the EIN for a business? Yes, but your success depends on the business type and the resources you use. Nonprofits and public companies are easier to research, while private businesses may require direct contact or paid databases.
For EIN support or help forming your LLC, visit FormLLC.us.
