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What an EIN is

The tax number the IRS assigns to a business.

EIN and ITIN · 2 min read · Updated November 11, 2026

In this guide
  1. What it is used for
  2. What it is not
  3. How you get one
  4. How long it takes
  5. What Fairentity does
  6. Keep it safe

An Employer Identification Number, or EIN, is a nine digit number the IRS assigns to a business. It works like a tax identity for the company, in the same way a Social Security number does for a person.

What it is used for

  • Opening a business bank account at most banks.
  • Filing federal tax returns and information returns.
  • Hiring employees and paying payroll taxes.
  • Applying for payment processors and some business accounts.

What it is not

An EIN is not a license, and it does not mean the company is in good standing with the state. It is separate from the state's formation record. The company must exist before the IRS assigns a number.

How you get one

The IRS assigns EINs at no charge. The application asks for the company's legal name, its type, the state of formation, the date it started and details about a responsible party, which is a person who controls the company. Some applications ask for that person's tax identification number, such as a Social Security number or an ITIN. People without either have another path, described in our article on getting an EIN without a Social Security number.

How long it takes

The time depends on how the application is submitted and on how busy the IRS is. Some applications are answered quickly and others take weeks. We cannot speed up the IRS.

What Fairentity does

If you ask for an EIN, we prepare the application from the information you gave Fae and submit it for you. The number then appears in your dashboard.

Keep it safe

Treat your EIN as a sensitive number. Share it only with banks, payment providers and tax authorities that need it.

This is general information, not legal or tax advice.

General information, not legal or tax advice. If your case needs it, a licensed attorney or accountant can advise you. Read the disclaimer

Related questions

What people usually ask after reading this.

How do I get an EIN without an SSN?

The is your company's federal tax number. When the responsible party has no SSN or , Fae prepares the SS-4 form for you to sign and we send it to the IRS. That route usually takes 4 to 10 business days.

Do I need an ITIN?

Not to form the company or to get its . An is a tax number for you, not for the company, and it is a separate service we prepare with you and a certified acceptance agent if you need it.

How long does the EIN take and what do I receive at the end?

If the responsible party has no SSN or , the application is done on Form SS-4 and usually takes 4 to 10 business days. When the IRS approves, it sends the number in a letter and we place a copy in your dashboard. We tell you when we send the form and when the IRS replies.

Who is the responsible party on the EIN form?

It is the person who ultimately owns or controls the company. The application asks for a tax number for that person; if they have no SSN or , the line is marked as foreign or not applicable and the form goes in on paper.

Does an EIN give me the right to live or work in the US?

No. The identifies the company to the IRS and nothing more. It has no relation to a visa, a work permit or residency.

Keep reading

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Still have a question about your case?

This guide is general. Fae can apply it to your company, your country and your state.