What Is an EIN Number?
An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is a unique 9-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business for tax purposes. Think of it as a Social Security Number for your business.
You’ll need an EIN if you:
- Hire employees
- Open a business bank account
- File federal taxes
- Apply for business licenses
- Operate an LLC, corporation, or partnership
Free Ways to Get an EIN from the IRS
There are several ways to get an EIN directly from the IRS at no cost:
1. Apply Online
The easiest and fastest method. Visit the official IRS EIN Assistant:
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online
2. Apply by Fax or Mail
Complete Form SS-4 and send it to the IRS by fax or mail. Processing may take several days to weeks.
3. Apply by Phone (International Applicants)
If you’re applying from outside the U.S., call 267-941-1099 (not toll-free).
Why Do Some Services Charge for EIN Application?
While the IRS offers EINs for free, many third-party filing services charge a fee — often between $50 to $200 — to apply on your behalf. These services may offer added value such as:
- EIN application with LLC formation
- IRS communication handling
- Same-day filing or expedited services
- EIN certificate retrieval
However, if you’re comfortable filling out a short form, you can skip these fees by applying directly.
Conclusion
How much does it cost to get an EIN number from the IRS? It costs $0 when you apply directly. You don’t need to pay any company or service unless you want assistance or added convenience.
For entrepreneurs who want to save time or prefer expert help, websites like FormLLC.us can handle EIN registration along with business formation and compliance services — ensuring everything is set up correctly.
