What Is an EIN Number?

An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is a unique nine-digit tax identification number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to businesses and organizations operating in the United States.

Similar to a Social Security number for individuals, an EIN is used by the IRS to identify and track the tax obligations of businesses and other entities, such as corporations, partnerships, sole proprietorships, trusts, and estates.

Businesses typically need an EIN for various purposes, such as opening a business bank account, applying for business licenses and permits, filing tax returns, and hiring employees. Non-profit organizations, estates, and certain types of trusts may also need an EIN.

To obtain an EIN, businesses and organizations must apply to the IRS online, by fax, mail, phone, or through an attorney, and provide certain information about their business, such as its legal name, mailing address, and the type of business entity it is.