Looking to verify a business’s identity for tax, credit, or compliance purposes? You may need to know how to find a company’s tax ID—commonly known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
Here’s a guide to help you locate it legally and efficiently.
What Is a Company’s Tax ID?
A company’s Tax Identification Number (TIN), also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN), is a 9-digit number issued by the IRS to identify a business for federal tax purposes.
5 Ways to Find a Company’s Tax ID
1. Check the Company’s Website
Many companies include their EIN on:
- Invoices
- Press releases
- Investor relations pages (for public companies)
- Legal disclaimers or footer sections
2. Search SEC Filings
If the company is publicly traded, its EIN is included in SEC filings like the 10-K or 8-K.
Visit https://www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/companysearch.html to search by company name or ticker.
3. Use Business Lookup Tools
You can use third-party tools like:
- OpenCorporates
- Melissa Data
- HIPAASpace EIN Lookup
- IRS Exempt Organization Search (for nonprofits)
These platforms offer EIN lookups by business name or location.
4. Request Directly from the Company
If you have a business relationship, you can request the EIN directly via:
- W-9 form (common with contractors and vendors)
- Customer support or finance department
5. Look Through Business Credit Reports
Services like Dun & Bradstreet and Experian Business Credit sometimes provide EINs as part of business credit profiles. These are usually paid services.
Can You Look Up Any Company’s Tax ID?
No. EINs are not always public, especially for small or private companies. You must have a legitimate reason for accessing the EIN—typically for tax reporting, due diligence, or regulatory compliance.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been wondering how to find a company’s tax ID, there are multiple legal methods available—especially for public businesses and nonprofits. For private companies, it’s best to request the EIN directly or via an official W-9.
