Fill out SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) online
Form SS-4 is used to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. An EIN is a nine-digit number assigned to businesses, trusts, estates, and other entities for tax filing and reporting purposes.
How to fill out SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number)
Enter legal name and trade name
Write the legal name of the entity on line 1. If you do business under a different name (DBA), enter it on line 2.
Provide responsible party information
Enter the name, SSN or ITIN of the responsible party (the individual who controls or manages the entity) on lines 7a and 7b.
Select entity type
Check the appropriate box on line 9a for your entity type: sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, LLC, trust, estate, or other.
Specify reason for applying
Check the box on line 10 that describes why you need an EIN: started a new business, hired employees, banking purposes, or other reasons.
Enter business details and sign
Fill in the date business started, fiscal year end, number of expected employees, and principal business activity. Sign and date the form.
About SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number)
Who needs this form
Any new business entity, including sole proprietors who hire employees, partnerships, corporations, LLCs, trusts, estates, nonprofits, and anyone required to file employment, excise, or alcohol/tobacco/firearms tax returns.
Where to submit
Apply online at irs.gov/ein for immediate issuance, fax to the IRS (response within 4 business days), or mail to the IRS address in the form instructions (allow 4-5 weeks).
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-16
- Check the latest official form instructions for the filing year that applies to you.
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying for multiple EINs when only one is needed
- Using the wrong entity type classification
- Not having an SSN or ITIN for the responsible party
- Applying by mail when faster methods (online, fax) are available
Frequently asked questions
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How long does it take to get an EIN?
If you apply online at irs.gov, you receive your EIN immediately after completing the application. Fax applications are processed within 4 business days. Mail applications take 4-5 weeks.
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