Get Your Federal Employer Identification Number
A federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique 9-digit number from the IRS. Most businesses need one. You’ll need one to open a bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.
How to Get an EIN With Northwest
Why You Need an EIN
To open a business bank account. Most banks require an EIN to open a business bank account, and many businesses need one to file federal taxes. Keeping business and personal finances separate strengthens liability protection and simplifies taxes.
To protect your identity. Using an EIN for business purposes helps to shield your SSN from being exposed, which reduces the risk of identity theft.
To hire employees. If you plan to hire workers, you’ll need an EIN to report payroll taxes, withhold employee taxes, and comply with federal employment laws.
To build credibility with customers and vendors. An EIN lets you use a business tax ID instead of your SSN on checks and official forms. It also helps you apply for business licenses, vendor accounts, and credit, helping your business look and act professional.
What Is An EIN?
An EIN, also called a federal EIN or FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number), is a unique nine-digit tax ID the IRS assigns to businesses. Like a Social Security Number for your business, an EIN lets you open bank accounts, apply for loans and licenses, meet tax obligations, and keep your personal SSN private.
When Should I get An EIN?
You need to have formed your business before you apply for an EIN. So the best time to get your EIN is when you start your business, as part of the formation process. That way you’ll have everything you need to operate your business properly on day one.
How Do I Know If I Need An EIN?
Not sure if your business needs an EIN? Ask yourself these questions:
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Is my business a partnership or corporation?
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Do I have employees?
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Is my business involved with mortgage investments?
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Do I withhold taxes on any income other than wages paid to a nonresident alien?
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Is my business involved with nonprofit organizations?
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Does my business handle estates, trusts or IRAs?
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Do I file a return for employment, tobacco, alcohol, firearms or excise taxes?
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Does my business have a Keogh plan (a retirement plan for self-employed individuals or those who work for unincorporated businesses)?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, your business probably needs an EIN.
How Our EIN Service Works
Dealing with the IRS isn’t easy. At Northwest, we’re happy to do it for you.
When you hire us to get an EIN for your business, our professional staff will gather your information and submit it to the IRS for you. If there are any problems with the filing, we’ll work with the IRS to resolve them as fast and efficiently as possible.
Get an EIN and Start a Business
Get your EIN at the same time that you start a business. Let us deal with the IRS.
Real Humans, Real Service
Why Choose Northwest?
Privacy By Default ®
We shield your personal information wherever possible and never, ever sell your data to third parties. You don’t have to opt in. It’s automatic. That’s Privacy By Default ®.
We’re Independent, Like You ®
No investors. No debt. No third-party partners. We own our services and answer only to you, so you stay in control. Learn more in our Manifesto.
We’re Just Not Annoying ®
We trademarked We’re Just Not Annoying® because we’re real humans with real contact information, same-day email responses, and US-based support. We don’t make you jump through hoops just to get help.
We Are Corporate Guides ®
Our Corporate Guides® have years of experience navigating state bureaucracy. They’re a mix of paralegals, accountants, advisors, educators, lawyers, and business experts who know the ins and outs of every state.
Employer Identification Number FAQs
Apply for free directly through the IRS website. Fill out the online application (Form SS-4), and you’ll get your EIN immediately after submitting. You can also apply by fax or mail, but that takes longer.
Or you can hire us.
Get an EIN Today
Let us deal with the IRS.