Use the IRS application and check the eligibility requirements before you begin.
Does an EIN cost money?
The IRS never charges for an EIN. Beware of websites that charge an EIN fee.
Source and quotation
Beware of websites that charge for an EIN. You never have to pay a fee for an EIN.Official source
Last verified Oct 25, 2026
Who can apply for an EIN online?
The online tool requires a domestic organization formed in the United States or its territories, a principal place of business there, the responsible party or authorized representative, and the responsible party’s SSN or ITIN.
Source and quotation
Use this if all of these are correct: You are a domestic organization, formed or created in the United States or U.S. territories. Your principal place of business is in the U.S. or U.S. territories. You're the responsible party in control of the entity or its authorized representative. You have the responsible party’s Social Security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer ID number (ITIN).Official source
Last verified Oct 25, 2026
You cannot use the online tool if your principal place of business is outside the U.S. or if you are applying with an EIN, unless you are a government entity.
Source and quotation
You can't use this if either: Your principal place of business is outside the U.S. If so, apply by phone, fax or mail. You are applying with an EIN (unless you are government entity).Official source
Last verified Oct 25, 2026
What do I need before applying?
Have your business entity type and the responsible party’s taxpayer ID ready. A third-party designee must have signed authorization.
Source and quotation
Your business entity type. The Social Security number or taxpayer ID number of the responsible party in control of your business or organization. If you’re a third-party designee, you must have signed authorization to apply.Official source
Last verified Oct 25, 2026
If you are creating a corporation or LLC, form it with the state before applying for an EIN.
Source and quotation
If you are creating a corporation or LLC, form your entity through the secretary of state before you apply for an EIN.Official source
Last verified Oct 25, 2026
How do I get my EIN?
Complete the application in one session; you cannot save it for later. It expires after 15 minutes of inactivity. Print the confirmation letter for your records.
Source and quotation
Complete the application in one session. You can't save it for later. It expires after 15 minutes of inactivity, and you’ll need to start over. Print your EIN confirmation letter for your records.Official source
Last verified Oct 25, 2026
If your online application is approved, the IRS issues your EIN immediately online.
Source and quotation
If it’s approved, we’ll issue your EIN immediately online.Official source
Last verified Oct 25, 2026
You can apply for only 1 EIN per responsible party per day.
Source and quotation
You can apply for only 1 EIN per responsible party per day.Official source
Last verified Oct 25, 2026