An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is essential for running a legitimate business in the United States. Whether you’re applying for a business license, opening a business bank account, or filing taxes, your EIN must be valid. But how do you check if your EIN is valid?
This blog will walk you through different ways to verify the validity of your EIN and ensure your business is compliant with IRS regulations.
What Is an EIN?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is issued by the IRS to identify businesses for tax purposes. It works like a Social Security Number but is used for businesses.
Why Check Your EIN’s Validity?
There are several reasons why you might need to verify your EIN:
- You lost your EIN and want to confirm it.
- You’re unsure if the EIN you’re using is correct.
- A bank or government agency rejected your EIN.
- You’re validating another company’s EIN for compliance or contracts.
How Do I Check If My EIN Is Valid?
There are several ways to verify the validity of an EIN:
1. Contact the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line
You can directly call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time). Only authorized persons associated with the business can obtain EIN confirmation.
Tip: Have your business details ready, including name, address, and EIN if you know it.
2. Review Official IRS Documents
Your EIN appears on several documents, such as:
- EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575)
- Filed tax returns (Form 941, 1120, etc.)
- IRS correspondence
If these documents match the EIN you’re using, it’s likely valid.
3. Check With Financial Institutions
If you’ve used the EIN to open a bank account, request documentation from the bank showing the EIN they have on file.
4. Use EIN Verification Services (for Third Parties)
If you’re checking another company’s EIN, use:
- TIN Matching (for payers registered with the IRS)
- Form W-9 Request – Ask the business to provide a signed W-9 for verification.
- Commercial databases – Some credit bureaus and business info providers offer EIN lookups for a fee.
What If My EIN Is Invalid?
If the IRS or bank says your EIN is invalid:
- Double-check spelling and numbers.
- Make sure the EIN belongs to your entity and isn’t revoked.
- Contact the IRS to resolve the issue.
- If needed, apply for a new EIN.
Final Thoughts
Verifying your EIN is essential for smooth business operations. If you’re asking how do I check if my EIN is valid, start with the IRS or your official business records. Keeping your EIN documents safe and updated will save you time and prevent issues with banks, partners, or the IRS.
