Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an EIN Online

Nov. 11, 2025, 6:25 p.m.
If you’re starting a business in the United States, one of the first tasks you’ll need to complete is getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, an EIN is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and serves as a unique identifier for your business — much like a Social Security Number (SSN) does for individuals. Whether you’re forming an LLC, corporation, partnership, or nonprofit, applying for an EIN online is the fastest and easiest way to get your number.
EIN Apply Online

What Is an EIN?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify businesses for tax purposes.
It’s required for:

  • Hiring employees

  • Opening a business bank account

  • Filing federal and state taxes

  • Applying for business licenses and permits

  • Establishing business credit

Even if you don’t plan to hire employees immediately, having an EIN adds credibility and helps separate your personal and business finances.

Who Needs an EIN?

You must obtain an EIN if your business:

  • Has employees

  • Operates as a corporation or partnership

  • Files employment, excise, or alcohol/tobacco/firearms tax returns

  • Withholds taxes on income (other than wages) paid to a non-resident alien

  • Has a Keogh plan

  • Is involved in certain organizations like trusts, estates, or nonprofits

Sole proprietors without employees can use their SSN — but many choose to get an EIN for privacy and professionalism.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an EIN Online

Applying online is free and takes about 10–15 minutes on the  website.

Step 1: Go to the  EIN Application Page

Visit the application website:  www.fmcsa.me

Step 2: Confirm Eligibility

You can apply online if:

  • Your business is located in the United States or U.S. territories

  • The responsible party has a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, or EIN)

  • You complete the application in one session (it will expire after 15 minutes of inactivity)

Step 3: Identify the Responsible Party

This is the person who owns, controls, or manages the business — typically the owner, principal officer, or managing member.

Step 4: Choose Your Business Structure

Select your entity type from the following options:

  • Sole Proprietor

  • Partnership

  • Corporation

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)

  • Nonprofit or Estate/Trust

Your answers determine the tax rules that apply to your business.

Step 5: Provide Business Details

You’ll need to enter:

  • Legal business name

  • Trade name (if any)

  • Physical address

  • County and state

  • Date the business started

You’ll also specify why you’re requesting an EIN (e.g., starting a new business, hiring employees, banking purposes, etc.).

Step 6: Confirm and Submit

Review your details carefully before submitting. Once approved, the IRS will instantly issue your EIN on a confirmation page.

Step 7: Save and Print Your EIN Confirmation

You’ll receive your EIN immediately after submission.
Make sure to:

  • Download and print your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575)

  • Keep it with your business records for tax and banking use

You can start using your EIN right away — there’s no waiting period.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

 

  • Entering the wrong entity type (especially LLC vs. sole proprietorship)

  • Leaving the session idle for too long (the IRS form will time out)

  • Forgetting to save your EIN confirmation letter

Conclusion

Getting your EIN online is quick, secure, and completely free. By following these steps, you can have your official IRS Employer Identification Number in minutes — ready for opening a bank account, filing taxes, and building your business identity.