1. Check IRS Documents or Communications
If it’s your own business, your EIN is on the IRS confirmation letter (CP 575) you received after applying. You can also find it on:
- Past tax returns
- Payroll filings
- IRS correspondence
- W-2s or 1099s issued by your business
2. Review Business Bank Account Records
Your bank may have requested your EIN during account setup. Review your:
- Business account application
- Monthly statements
- Bank tax forms
3. Contact the IRS (For Your Business Only)
You can call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933. They can help retrieve your EIN if you’re an authorized party like the owner, partner, or officer.
4. Use SEC Filings for Public Companies
If you’re trying to find the EIN of a public company, look through the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) EDGAR database. Companies often list their EIN on Form 10-K or other official filings.
5. Search State Business Entity Databases
Most states offer an online business entity search tool that includes public information such as:
- Business name
- Registered agent
- EIN (sometimes partially shown or hidden)
Check with the Secretary of State’s website for the state where the business is registered.
6. Check Business Credit Reports
Services like Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, or Equifax offer business credit reports that may include the company’s EIN if it’s public.
7. Ask the Business Directly
If you need the EIN for payment or verification, you can ask the business for a W-9 form, which legally provides their Tax ID.
Can You Look Up Any Business’s EIN for Free?
Only some EINs are public. Nonprofits, public companies, and some licensed businesses are required to disclose them. However, private businesses may not share their EIN publicly unless you have a legal or tax-related reason.
Conclusion
Still wondering where to find a tax ID number for a business? Use a combination of IRS records, business credit checks, public databases, and direct communication with the business. If you’re retrieving your own EIN, contacting the IRS or reviewing past records is usually the fastest route.
