When you apply for an EIN, one of the most important documents for your EIN confirmation is your verification letter from the IRS. This unique nine-digit number is crucial for numerous aspects of running a legitimate business. Once you’ve applied for an EIN, the IRS sends you an EIN verification letter, and it’s vital to keep this letter safe. 

However, if you happen to misplace it, don’t worry—this guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a copy of your EIN verification letter from the IRS.

What is an EIN confirmation letter?

The verification letter, often in the form of Form CP 575, is sent by the IRS upon approval of your EIN application, which you can fill out online. It serves as proof of your business’s tax identification and is required for tasks like opening a business bank account, hiring employees, and applying for specific business licenses.

Steps to Obtain a Copy of Your EIN Letter from the IRS

If you have lost or misplaced this confirmation letter, or simply did not receive one, then there are several steps you can take to ensure you get a copy of one. Below are some of the methods you can use to get your hands on a copy of your IRS EIN confirmation letter. 

Contacting the IRS for a Verification Letter

Losing your EIN confirmation letter is not uncommon, and the IRS understands this. If you find yourself in need of a new copy, the process is relatively straightforward. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 and speak to a representative on the “business and specialty tax line.” Request a 147c letter, which is essentially a new copy of your EIN verification letter. Be prepared to provide your EIN, business name, address, and other verification details. 

For the process to run as smoothly as possible, you should make sure that all of the information you provide to the operator matches the information registered on their records before you make the call. As a heads up, the IRS receives many calls on a daily basis, so you should also be prepared to spend a bit of time on hold before being put through to someone who can help you. 

Necessary Information for Verification 

Authorized individuals, such as business owners, partners, or those with power of attorney, can request a 147c letter. The IRS agent will likely ask questions to confirm your identity, including details like your business address as per IRS records and the type of tax return your business files. If you are not authorized to obtain an EIN or relevant information on behalf of your company, then you will not be able to request an EIN verification letter. 

Process for Requesting a 147c Letter

Once your identity is confirmed, you can choose how to receive your letter—either through mail or fax. While the IRS doesn’t email sensitive information, opting for fax can expedite the process compared to waiting for mail. In either format, the letter remains an official government document and will be accepted by any bank or licensing center should they require EIN confirmation. 

Alternative Ways to Retrieve Your EIN Letter

If you don’t have the means of requesting your EIN directly from the IRS, then there are other methods you can follow to get a hold of this important document. Below are some of the alternative ways you can try to get your verification letter. 

Getting a Copy from Your Bank

If you submitted a copy of your EIN verification letter when you applied for an account or loan, your bank might be able to help. Although they can’t provide an official copy, a scanned version of your EIN confirmation letter from your initial submission upon opening the account may be sufficient for certain tasks, depending on what they are. Before you request a copy of this document from your bank, it’s advised you confirm with the receiving party if a scanned copy will meet their requirements. Some organizations may need original documentation. 

Contacting Your Accountant or Agency

If you enlisted the help of an external accountant or agency for your EIN application, they may have a copy of your confirmation letter. Reach out to them for assistance and they may be able to provide you with the document you require. 

Checking for IRS Email Confirmations

If you applied for your EIN through the IRS website, check your email for confirmation. The IRS typically sends an email that can serve as proof in some respects. Remember, when you apply for an EIN online, it takes about 2 weeks for the IRS to register that EIN with your business. You should therefore check this before proceeding with any tasks that require EIN confirmation. 

Conclusion

Keeping track of your EIN confirmation letter is crucial for the smooth operation of your business. Losing it is not the end of the world, as the IRS provides accessible ways to obtain a new copy. By promptly addressing the situation and maintaining accurate records, you ensure that your business functions seamlessly without any downtime or disruptions caused by administrative oversight. Whether through direct IRS contact, banking assistance, or support from professionals, the process is designed to be manageable. Always prioritize the safekeeping of your EIN documentation to avoid unnecessary hassles in the future. 

If you require confirmation of your EIN but do not necessarily need an official letter, then you can also make use of lookup services like EINSearch. Our services offer a quick and easy way for you to obtain your EIN, or even another company’s if necessary. Get in touch with us today to see how we may be able to assist in locating your business’ EIN.