How to Get an EIN for Your LLC

How to get an EIN for your LLC: what it is, why you need one, and how to apply free on IRS.gov in about 15 minutes. Steps, timeline, and rules included.

What an EIN Is

How to get an EIN for your LLC starts with understanding what the number is and why your company needs one. An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to your business, formatted like 12-3456789. Think of it as a Social Security number for your LLC. The IRS uses it to track your business's tax filings, and banks, vendors, and payroll companies use it to identify your company. The EIN is permanent — it stays with your LLC for its entire life, even if you change your name, address, or members.

Why Your LLC Needs an EIN

An LLC needs an EIN to open a business bank account — most banks require it, even for single-member LLCs. You also need one to hire employees, run payroll, and pay employment taxes. It is required for filing certain business tax returns, and it keeps your personal Social Security number off business documents. Even if you have no employees, getting an EIN separates your business identity from your personal one, which makes bookkeeping and tax filing cleaner. Some states also ask for your EIN when you register for state taxes.

The EIN Is Free From the IRS

The IRS issues EINs at no charge. The only official way to apply is through the IRS — the online application at IRS.gov, by fax, by mail, or by phone for international applicants. Never pay a third-party website for an EIN; the IRS does not charge for it, and any site that asks for a fee is a middleman. The online application takes about 15 minutes and issues your EIN immediately when you finish. You can apply online Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern time.

How to Apply Online, Step by Step

Go to IRS.gov and search for "Apply for an EIN." Click the online application, confirm you are the responsible party, and choose the entity type "Limited Liability Company." Enter your LLC's legal name exactly as it appears on your Articles of Organization, your mailing address, and the responsible party's name and Social Security number. Answer the questions about why you are applying and whether you have employees. When you submit, the IRS displays your EIN on screen — save it, print the confirmation, and download the EIN confirmation letter (CP 575) for your records.

Timeline: Online vs. Fax vs. Mail

Online is the fastest: you get your EIN immediately, usually within 15 minutes. Fax applications take about four business days to process, and mailed applications take four to six weeks. The IRS does not offer a phone option for applicants inside the United States. If you need the number today, apply online during business hours. If you apply by fax or mail, you cannot check status online, so keep a copy of everything you send.

LLC vs. Sole Proprietor EIN Rules

A sole proprietor without employees can use their Social Security number and does not need an EIN. A single-member LLC is treated as a disregarded entity for taxes, but it is still a separate legal entity — and banks and states usually require an EIN anyway. A multi-member LLC must have an EIN because it files a partnership return (Form 1065). An LLC that elects S corporation status needs an EIN for its corporate tax return (Form 1120-S). In short: if you formed an LLC, get the EIN. It is free, fast, and removes friction everywhere. For the full formation picture, see how to start an LLC.

After You Get Your EIN

Use your EIN to open a business bank account, register for state taxes, and set up payroll if you hire anyone. Keep the CP 575 confirmation letter with your formation documents. If you lose the letter, you can request a replacement from the IRS by phone or by writing to the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line. Never use your EIN for personal accounts, and never share it casually — it is sensitive information, just like your Social Security number. More details live in our EIN number guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an EIN cost?

Nothing. The IRS issues EINs for free. The online application takes about 15 minutes and gives you the number immediately. Never pay a third-party website for one.

Does a single-member LLC need an EIN?

Not for tax purposes, but practically yes. Banks require an EIN to open a business account, and it keeps your Social Security number off business documents.

How long does it take to get an EIN?

Online applications issue the EIN immediately, usually within 15 minutes. Fax takes about 4 business days, and mail takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Can I get an EIN before my LLC is approved?

No. The IRS requires your LLC to be legally formed first, because the EIN is issued to the entity. Apply after the state approves your Articles of Organization.

Can I use my personal Social Security number instead of an EIN?

A sole proprietor can, but an LLC should use an EIN. Multi-member LLCs and LLCs with employees are required to have one, and banks generally require it for business accounts.