An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is a nine-digit number that the IRS assigns to business entities. The IRS uses this number to identify taxpayers that are required to file various business tax returns. EINs are used by employers, sole proprietors, corporations, partnerships, non-profit organizations, trusts and estates, government agencies, certain individuals and other business entities.

Generally speaking the only business that does not need to obtain the tax ID number is one established as a sole proprietorship that does not have any employees and does not file any excises or pension plan tax returns. Every other business owner is required to apply for a tax ID number.

The benefits of using a tax ID number, instead of your social security number, not only provides security in this day in age of identity theft, but also puts your commerce handlings on the business side of things rather than the personal side.  In obtaining a state or federal tax ID number you are essentially separating your business and personal affairs.



» Online Application at IRS (Tax ID / EIN)

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» State Revenue Links