How to Change or Update EIN Information

Jan. 5, 2026, 7:44 p.m.
Changing or updating your EIN (Employer Identification Number) information depends on what exactly you want to update. The IRS allows you to correct or update certain information associated with your EIN, but the process varies by type of change.
How to Change or Update EIN Information

1. What Information Can Be Changed

You cannot change the EIN itself—it is permanent once issued. But you can update the following information:

  • Legal name of the business

  • Trade name (DBA)

  • Address (mailing or business location)

  • Responsible party information (the person who controls the business)

  • Business structure (with some restrictions; major changes may require a new EIN)

2. How to Update Business Name

  • Sole Proprietor: If the business name changed, send a letter to the IRS:

    • Include the old name, new name, EIN, and signature of the business owner.

    • Mail to:
      Internal Revenue Service
      Cincinnati, OH 45999

  • Corporation or LLC: Check IRS Form 1120 (corporation) or Form 1065 (partnership) for instructions—usually you indicate the new name on the next tax return.

3. How to Update Address

  • Option 1: File Form 8822-B

    • Form 8822-B: Change of Address or Responsible Party — Business.

    • Use this form if your business moves or the responsible party changes.

    • Mail the form to the address indicated in the instructions (varies by state).

  • Option 2: Notify via Written Statement

    • Include: business name, old address, new address, EIN, signature.

    • Send to the IRS address where you file returns.

4. How to Update Responsible Party

  • The responsible party is the person who ultimately controls the business. If this changes:

    • File Form 8822-B.

    • You must notify the IRS within 60 days of the change.

    • Include the new responsible party’s name, SSN, and title.

5. How to Update Other EIN Information

  • If you need to update business structure (e.g., from sole proprietorship to corporation):

    • Often this requires applying for a new EIN, because the structure change is considered a new entity.

    • You may also need to file dissolution paperwork for the old entity.

6. Contacting the IRS Directly

  • You can call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line:

    • Phone: 1-800-829-4933

    • Hours: Mon–Fri, 7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. local time

    • They can provide guidance for specific updates, especially if forms or letters are unclear.

Summary Table

Update Type Method Form / Document
Business Name Letter to IRS or tax return update N/A / Form 1120, 1065
Business Address Form 8822-B or written notice Form 8822-B
Responsible Party Form 8822-B Form 8822-B
Change in Entity Type Apply for new EIN SS-4 (new EIN application)

Key Points to Remember:

  1. The EIN never changes, only the associated information can.

  2. Use Form 8822-B for address and responsible party updates.

  3. Keep copies of all correspondence with the IRS for your records.

  4. Some changes may require a new EIN if the business structure changes.

 

How to Change or Update EIN Information