Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a Federal Tax ID (EIN) Number?
A. A Federal Tax ID (EIN) Number, also known as an Employer Identification Number or EIN, is basically a Social Security Number (SSN) for businesses. It is the number the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses to identify the business, and it must be included on all federal tax filings the business makes. Also, banks generally require an EIN to open business bank accounts.
Top of page
Q. Can I reuse the Federal Tax ID (EIN) Number from my sole proprietorship?
A. If you operate your business as a sole proprietorship or general partnership, your Social Security Number (SSN) is used as the Federal Tax ID Number for your business. When you incorporate or form a limited liability company (LLC), you must obtain a new EIN for your business.
Top of page
Q. How do I apply for a Federal Tax ID (EIN) Number?
A. Businesses apply for an EIN by preparing Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form SS-4 and filing it with the IRS. BizFilings can assist with the preparation of this document and/or obtainment of your company's EIN number from the IRS on your behalf.
Top of page
Q. Do I need to file any paperwork with my state?
A. Some states also require a State Tax Identification Number (State Tax ID Number). BizFilings can help obtain a State Tax ID Number in states that require one for all business entities. These states include Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Nevada, Tennessee, Virginia and Vermont. Other states may require a State Tax ID Number for specific entity types. To learn if your state requires a separate number, contact your state's taxation authority.
Top of page
Q. How do I obtain and Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)?
A. To obtain an ITIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), you must complete IRS Form W-7 and mail it to the IRS. Click here to print Form W-7 and the associated instruction sheet. BizFilings does not assist with the preparation of Form W-7 or the obtainment of the ITIN.
Top of page
