What Is an EIN Number?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Whether you’re a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, or corporation, you’ll likely need an EIN to:
- Open a business bank account
- File federal or state taxes
- Hire employees
- Apply for business licenses
Is There a Fee to Get an EIN?
No, the IRS does not charge a fee for EIN applications. You can apply:
- Online via the IRS EIN Assistant
- By fax or mail using Form SS-4
- By phone if you’re an international applicant
Why Do Some Websites Charge for EINs?
Third-party companies often charge a service fee to apply for an EIN on your behalf. While this is legal, it’s not necessary. These providers typically bundle the EIN with other business formation services.
If you’re comfortable filling out the form yourself, you can avoid those extra costs.
When It Might Be Worth Paying
If you want a done-for-you solution or are unfamiliar with tax procedures, it might be worth paying a professional or using a service like FormLLC.us to handle it all for you—especially if you’re also registering your business or filing for multiple documents.
Conclusion
Do you have to pay to get an EIN number? Absolutely not—if you apply directly with the IRS, it’s completely free. Be cautious of unnecessary fees from third-party websites unless you’re paying for convenience or expert assistance.
