An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to businesses for tax purposes. If you need to verify or locate a business’s EIN, there are a few legal and reliable ways to do it.
1. Check Official Business Documents
If you’re looking for your own business’s EIN, start with:
- IRS confirmation letter (CP 575)
- Business tax returns
- Old EIN application (Form SS-4)
- Payroll documents or W-2s
2. Contact the Business Directly
If you’re trying to find the EIN for another company (like a vendor or client), the fastest method is to contact the business directly and request their EIN. Some may include it on invoices or official correspondence.
3. Use the SEC’s EDGAR Database
If the business is publicly traded, you can search its filings on the SEC’s EDGAR database. EINs often appear in the top sections of 10-K and other financial reports.
4. Use Paid EIN Lookup Services
Some websites offer business lookup services that include EINs, particularly for nonprofits and registered companies. Examples include:
- LexisNexis
- KnowX
- EINsearch.com
(Note: These may charge a fee.)
5. Search IRS Exempt Organizations Database
For nonprofits, the IRS provides a searchable tool that lists EINs along with tax-exempt status and filings.
6. Ask the IRS (For Your Own EIN Only)
If you’ve lost your EIN, you can call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 (Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. local time). The IRS will only disclose EINs to authorized parties.
Conclusion
Knowing how to find EIN for a business depends on your relationship to the company. If it’s your own business, check your records or call the IRS. For other companies, use public databases or contact them directly.
