1. Check Your Records First
Your EIN is usually found on many official business documents, including:
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The EIN confirmation letter from the IRS (CP 575)
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Tax returns you filed for your business
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Bank account statements or loan applications
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Business licenses or permits
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Payroll or W-2 forms (if you have employees)
If you can locate any of these, you’ll likely find the EIN printed on them.
2. Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line
If you can’t find your EIN in your records, contact the IRS directly:
IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: 1-800-829-4933
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (local time)
When calling, you’ll need to verify your identity, so be ready to provide:
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Your name and business name
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Your position in the company (e.g., owner, officer, or authorized representative)
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Your SSN or ITIN
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The type of entity (LLC, corporation, etc.)
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The business address on file
Once verified, the IRS will give your EIN over the phone — they will not email or fax it for security reasons.
3. Avoid Reapplying for a New EIN
Many people mistakenly apply for a new EIN when they lose the old one.
This can cause serious issues, including:
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Duplicate records with the IRS
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Tax filing confusion
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Problems with business banking and payroll
Always recover your original EIN instead of creating a new one.
4. Keep Your EIN Safe
To prevent future issues:
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Store your EIN confirmation letter in a secure folder (physical and digital copy).
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Add your EIN to your internal records and accounting software.
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Ensure your accountant or tax preparer has it on file.
Summary
If you lose your EIN:
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Check old records.
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Call the IRS Business Line (1-800-829-4933).
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Verify your identity to retrieve it.
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Keep it safe — don’t reapply for a new one.