If you’re doing business or due diligence, you may need to know: how do you find a company’s EIN? A company’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique, nine-digit number issued by the IRS for tax identification. It’s often required for contracts, tax forms, or financial records.
Top Ways to Find a Company’s EIN
1. Check the Company’s Website
Some companies post their EIN on their website, typically in their investor relations, legal disclosures, or “About Us” section—especially public corporations.
2. Search SEC Filings
Public companies must disclose their EIN in SEC filings. You can find this on:
3. Review Tax Documents
If you’ve received:
- A W-2
- A 1099
- A business invoice
…the EIN is usually listed on these forms.
4. Contact the Company Directly
You can request their EIN for legitimate business or tax purposes. Most reputable companies will provide it upon request.
5. Use a Third-Party EIN Lookup Service
Several online services specialize in EIN lookups for a fee. Use caution and ensure the service is reputable.
Are EINs Public Information?
Yes, for most businesses, especially those registered with government agencies or those filing public records. However, sole proprietors’ EINs are not always publicly accessible.
Why Would You Need to Find a Company’s EIN?
- Filing IRS forms (like 1099s)
- Verifying business identity
- Doing background checks or vendor compliance
- Opening business bank accounts or credit
Final Thoughts
So, how do you find a company’s EIN? Start with public sources like the SEC or official business records. For private companies, request it directly or use legitimate lookup tools.