Losing or misplacing your Employer Identification Number happens all the time. However, it’s super easy to find it if you know where to look. You likely have these on file somewhere or can access it easier than you think. In this quick guide, we’ll look at exactly how you can locate your EIN if you have lost or misplaced it. 

Your EIN is a critical identifier for your business, functioning much like a Social Security Number (SSN) for an individual. It is essential for various business-related activities, including tax filing, hiring employees, opening business bank accounts, and applying for loans or credits. To avoid complications, it’s crucial to keep your EIN information safe, whether in a hard copy or in digital form.

Check your business documents

When you initially applied for your EIN, the IRS sent you a confirmation letter. This letter is a crucial document that contains your EIN and serves as an official confirmation of your business’s registration. To retrieve your lost EIN, start by checking your business documents, both physical and digital.

If you saved a digital copy of the confirmation letter, a quick search through your email or computer files might yield the needed information. For physical copies, check your filing cabinet or the place where you store essential business paperwork.

You will also be able to look at your previously filed tax returns as you need to quote this on the documentation before you submit your returns to the IRS. You can take a look at these documents to find your EIN. 

Use an EIN lookup service

If you need to save yourself time, then consider using an EIN lookup service like EINsearch. This is a fast and efficient way to find a lost or misplaced EIN. EIN lookup services often offer additional features, such as verifying the accuracy of your business information or obtaining EINs for other businesses. Exploring these options can provide added convenience for your business needs. 

Call the IRS

If neither of the above options suits you, then the only other alternative solution is contacting the IRS directly. The Business and Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 is available to assist you. When calling, be prepared to provide the necessary information to verify your identity and business details.

Expect potential wait times when calling the IRS, and ensure you have a pen and paper ready to jot down any information or instructions provided during the call.

What if I need a new EIN?

Applying for a new EIN is a straightforward process that can be done online through the IRS website. The process involves filling out Form SS-4, and upon approval, you’ll receive a new EIN for your business. While applying for a new EIN is a viable solution, it’s essential to ensure that you’ve explored all avenues to locate the original one. Duplicate EINs can lead to confusion and administrative challenges, so it’s in your best interest to exhaust all efforts to retrieve the misplaced number before opting for a new one.

The best way to apply for an EIN is through the IRS website. Simply navigate to the EIN application portal and complete the online questionnaire. The process should take around 30 minutes in total. If you need to finish the application urgently, then you need to have the information ready to go before you start your application. It’s also important to note that when you start your application, you have to finish it in one sitting as you will not be able to log back into the portal and continue your application. 

Upon successful completion of your EIN application, you will receive your EIN straight away. However, you may need to wait one to two weeks to be able to use it for legal purposes, as the IRS takes a while to register it on their system once it is generated. 

Try EINsearch services today

Losing your EIN can be a common occurrence, but with the right steps, you can quickly retrieve your lost EIN. Begin by checking your business documents for the confirmation letter, explore the convenience of EIN lookup services, and if needed, contact the IRS directly for assistance. Applying for a new EIN is an option, but it’s advisable to consider it only after a thorough exploration of other avenues.

For an efficient EIN retrieval experience, consider leveraging the services of EINsearch. Their specialized tools and resources can simplify the process and ensure you have the accurate information needed for the smooth operation of your business. Remember, your EIN is more than just a number; it’s the key to unlocking various opportunities for your business growth and success.