A Federal Tax ID Number, also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN), is used by the IRS to identify your business for tax reporting and compliance. If you’ve lost or misplaced this number, you may be wondering: how do I find my federal tax ID number?
In this blog, we’ll cover the easiest and safest ways to retrieve your EIN and what to do if you can’t find it.
What Is a Federal Tax ID Number?
A Federal Tax ID Number, or EIN, is a unique 9-digit number issued by the IRS to businesses, non-profits, trusts, and other entities. It is required for:
- Filing federal taxes
- Opening business bank accounts
- Applying for licenses and permits
- Hiring employees
How Do I Find My Federal Tax ID Number?
If you’ve already received your EIN but can’t locate it, here are several ways to retrieve it:
1. Check Your EIN Confirmation Letter
When you apply for an EIN, the IRS sends a confirmation letter known as CP 575. This letter contains your official EIN. If you applied online, it was available to download immediately.
2. Look at Filed Tax Returns
If you’ve already filed tax returns using your EIN, check copies of:
- Form 941 (Employer’s Quarterly Tax Return)
- Form 1120 (Corporate Tax Return)
- Form 990 (for nonprofits)
Your EIN is listed on these forms, usually at the top.
3. Review Official IRS Correspondence
Any letter or notice from the IRS about your business likely includes your EIN. Check past correspondence, including:
- IRS tax notices
- Payment reminder letters
- Account confirmation notices
4. Contact Your Bank or Accountant
If you used your EIN to open a business bank account or applied for credit, the institution will have it on record. You can also ask your business accountant or tax preparer if they have it on file.
5. Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line
If you’ve exhausted all other options, call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. (local time). Be prepared to verify your identity and provide:
- Your full name
- Business name
- Business address
- Your SSN or ITIN
Only authorized individuals can request this information.
What If I Never Applied for an EIN?
If you can’t find your EIN and never applied for one, you can get a new one:
- Apply online at the IRS EIN Assistant
- Apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to find your federal tax ID number is crucial for managing your business finances and staying compliant with tax laws. By checking your records or contacting the IRS, you can quickly retrieve your EIN and avoid delays in banking or tax filing.
