How to get an EIN for LLC (Online)

Matt Horwitz

By Matt Horwitz

•

Updated October 3, 2025

Home » How to get an EIN for LLC (Online)

Need to save time?

Hire a company to form your LLC:
Northwest ($39 + state fee)
LegalZoom ($149 + state fee)

CONTENTS

Here are video instructions on how to get an EIN. There’s also written instructions below if you prefer.

LLC Federal Tax ID Number (EIN)

Note: The video above shows an old interface for the IRS’s website, however, the steps are still the same.

How to complete the online EIN Application for an LLC

Hours: The EIN Online Application is only available Monday through Friday, from 7:00am to 10:00pm Eastern Time.

Cost: An EIN is $0 (free) from the IRS.

Note: The instructions below are only for people who have an SSN or ITIN.

If you are a Non-US Resident and don’t have an SSN or ITIN, you can still get an EIN for your LLC. But you’ll need to follow different instructions: How to get an EIN without an SSN or ITIN.

Get started:

Visit the IRS Online EIN Application:
IRS: Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Click the blue “Apply for an EIN” button in the middle of the page.

Click “Begin Application Now“.

1. Legal Structure

In this section, you’ll tell the IRS:

  • what type of legal structure will be attached to the EIN (this will be your LLC)
  • how you would like the legal structure (your LLC) to be taxed
  • why you’re applying for an EIN

Don't have an LLC yet? Hire Northwest to form your LLC for $39 + state fee (then add EIN to your order).

Have an LLC, but no EIN? Hire Northwest to get your EIN:
I have an SSN | I don't have an SSN

What type of legal structure is applying for an EIN?

Select “Limited Liability Company (LLC)“.

Apply for EIN LLC Online Type of Structure

Note: You’ll see a blue “info box” appear discussing what an LLC is. There’s actually nothing to “confirm” here. It’s just information.

Tell us more about the members of the Limited Liability Company (LLC)

  • Enter the total number of LLC Members.
  • Then select the state where your LLC was formed.

The IRS EIN application asks how many members are in the LLC and in which state the business is physically located.

Note: You’ll see another blue “info box” appear discussing tax classification. This can feel a little overwhelming to read. But don’t worry, we’ll break it down below. Also, there’s actually nothing to “confirm” here. It’s just information.

LLCs can be taxed by the IRS a few different ways.

There are default tax classifications (based on the number of LLC Members). And there are optional elective tax classifications.

Default – Single-Member LLC:

Matt Horwitz, founder of LLC University®

Pro Tip: How your LLC is taxed by the IRS has nothing to do with your LLC’s liability protection. Your personal assets will still be protected regardless of how your LLC is taxed, even if your LLC is treated as a Disregarded Entity.

Default – Multi-Member LLC:

  • By default, the IRS will tax your LLC like a Partnership.
  • This means you’ll need to file a 1065 Partnership Return and issue K-1s to each LLC Member.
  • Then each Member’s profit (reported on the K-1) will “pass through” to their personal tax return (Form 1040).

Optional – Elective classifications:

Instead of their default tax classifications, LLCs (both Single-Member and Multi-Member) can request to be taxed like a Corporation. There are two types:

  • LLC taxed as a C-Corporation
  • LLC taxed as an S-Corporation

LLC taxed as a C-Corporation: This election is made by filing Form 8832. However, this isn’t a common election made by small business owners. There are a number of tax ramifications to be aware of.

LLC taxed as an S-Corporation: This election is made by filing Form 2553.

While this is more common than a C-Corporation election, we don’t recommend jumping into this right away. There’s a lot of misleading information online stating that “being taxed as an S-Corp is the best“.

We recommend considering this election once your LLC makes consistent profit, and generates $50k to $70k of net income per Member per year. At that point, it’s wise to speak to an accountant to see if it’s the right fit for your business. Otherwise, prematurely electing S-Corp status for your LLC can be stressful and lead to extra costs.

Note: If you choose to have your LLC taxed as a C-Corporation or S-Corporation, you’ll still need to complete the EIN Online Application first. And then afterwards file the appropriate form (8832 or 2553) with the IRS to request the desired election.

Husband & Wife LLCs in Community Property States (aka Qualified Joint Venture)

The IRS EIN Application provides the option of a Qualified Joint Venture to husbands and wives how have an LLC in a community property state.

If a married couple forms an LLC in a community property state, the IRS will ask if you want your LLC to be taxed as a Multi-Member LLC or Single-Member LLC.

  • If you choose Multi-Member LLC, your LLC will be taxed in its default status – like a Partnership.
  • If you choose Single-Member LLC, your LLC will be taxed like a Sole Proprietorship (this is a special election called a Qualified Joint Venture).

What is a Qualified Joint Venture (QJV)?

It’s when 2 LLC Members (who are spouses and meet the requirements) choose to have their Multi-Member LLC treated as a Single-Member LLC.

And therefore, their Multi-Member LLC is taxed as a Sole Proprietorship (instead of a Partnership).

The benefits of a Qualified Joint Venture are:

  • Simplified return: Instead of a separate 1065 Partnership Return and K-1s, taxes are reported on Form 1040 (with 2 Schedule Cs).
  • Saving money on tax prep: Since a separate 1065 Partnership Return isn’t needed, this saves money on tax preparation (if you have an accountant).
  • Social Security and Medicare: A QJV lets both spouses earn Social Security and Medicare credits (on their share of the business income), without increasing the total tax owed.

If you’re considering making this election, please read Qualified Joint Venture LLC to get the full picture.

Why is the LLC requesting an EIN?

Select “Started a new business” and then click “Continue“.

A yellow box on the IRS EIN application outlines the option of starting a new business as the reason for submitting the EIN application.

Tip: Even if you’re forming an LLC for something other than running a business (ex: holding real estate, managing investments, etc.), you can still select “Started a new business.”

2. Identity (EIN Responsible Party)

Think of the EIN Responsible Party as the “contact person” for your LLC.

If needed, the IRS will mail notices (or questions) to this person.

When applying for an EIN online, the Responsible Party must have an SSN or ITIN.

Tip: If you’re a Non-US resident and don’t have an SSN or ITIN, you can still get an EIN for your LLC. You just need to follow a different set of instructions: How to get an EIN without an SSN.

Who should be the EIN Responsible Party for my LLC?

  • If you have a Single-Member LLC: You will be the EIN Responsible Party.
  • If you have a Multi-Member LLC: One of the LLC Members will be the EIN Responsible Party.

The IRS just wants one person as the EIN Responsible Party. They don’t want all the LLC Members’ information. (The IRS gets all the Members’ information when you file your 1065 Partnership return.)

What if my LLC is owned by another company? If your LLC is owned by another company, list an owner of the parent company. The IRS rules changed in 2018 and they no longer allow another company to be the EIN Responsible Party. Said another way, the EIN Responsible Party must be a person.

Your Role

Select “I am one of the owners, members, or the managing member of this LLC“.

Then click “Continue” to proceed.

A yellow box on the IRS' EIN application outlines the role option of being an owner, member, or managing member of the LLC.

ITIN Number:

  • If you are entering your ITIN number, please note that there is a 30% chance you will receive an error message (called a reference number) at the end of the EIN Application.
  • If you receive an error message at the end, don’t worry, you can still get an EIN for your LLC. You just need to mail or fax in Form SS-4 instead. You can find the instructions here: apply for EIN with Form SS-4.

3. Addresses

In this section, you’ll give the IRS:

  • your LLC’s physical address
  • a phone number where the IRS can reach you
  • a secondary mailing address (this is optional)

Where is the LLC physically located?

Enter your LLC’s physical address and your U.S. phone number.

A PO Box address isn’t allowed. You must enter a physical street address.

Most people use their home address.

You can also list an office address, mailbox rental address, or Registered Agent address. However, generally speaking, it’s usually best to just use your home address.

(Note: Unlike LLC filings with the state, your EIN information and address isn’t on public record.)

Matt Horwitz, founder of LLC University®

Pro Tip: The only special characters that are allowed in the address fields are a hyphen (-) and a forward slash (/). You can’t use the number sign (#), a comma, or a period.

For example: if your address is “123 Main Street, Apt. #3”, you’ll need to enter it as: “123 Main Street – Apt 3” or “123 Main Street Apt 3“.

EIN Application - Where is your LLC located

Non-US residents: If you don’t live in the US, you can use a mailbox rental address or the address of your Registered Agent, such as Northwest Registered Agent.

Do you have an address different from the above where you want your mail to be sent?

If you want mail from the IRS to be sent to a different address than your physical address, select “Yes” and enter that address here.

The IRS will use this address as your mailing address instead of the LLC’s physical location.

Verify your Physical Location:

If a page appears asking you to verify your physical location, it just means the IRS is formatting your address to match the “standardized format” from the United States Postal Service.

You can click “Accept Database Version” and then click “Continue“.

4. Additional Details

Tell us about the Limited Liability Company (LLC).

In this section, you’ll tell the IRS:

  • your LLC’s legal name
  • where your LLC is physically located
  • where you formed your LLC, and
  • when your LLC was formed.

Legal name of LLC:

Enter the full name of your LLC, but don’t use any punctuation or special characters. The only special characters allowed are the hyphen (-) and ampersand symbol (&).

For any other special characters, you’ll need to spell them out or replace them.

For Example:

  • ABC Widgets, LLC becomes ABC Widgets LLC
  • Claire’s Closet LLC becomes Claires Closet LLC
  • MySite.com LLC becomes MySite dot com LLC
  • A+ Solutions LLC becomes A Plus Solutions LLC
  • Jones @ the River LLC becomes Jones at the River LLC
  • Me$ha Talent LLC becomes Mesha Talent LLC
  • Black/White Records LLC becomes Black-White Records LLC

Keep in mind though, this doesn’t affect the legality of how your LLC is filed with the state. It’s simply the IRS “normalizing” their database records.

Trade Name/Doing Business As:

If your LLC has a DBA (aka Trade Name), enter it here.

If your LLC doesn’t have a DBA (aka Trade Name), leave this blank.

Note: A DBA or Trade Name isn’t required for an LLC. An LLC can just operate under its true and legal name. For more information, please see Do I need a DBA for my LLC?

County where LLC is located:

A lot of people read this too fast and think it says “country” (like the USA). It doesn’t. It says county (with no “r”).

Enter the county where your LLC is located. If you’re not sure which county your address is in, you can use this tool.

Note: If your address doesn’t have a county, enter the parrish, borough, independent city, or county equivalent.

State/Territory where the LLC is located:

Enter the state where your LLC was formed.

State/Territory where Articles of Organization are (or will be) filed:

Enter the state where your Articles of Organization was filed. For most people this will be the same state as where the LLC is located.

Note: In some states, the Articles of Organization is called the Certificate of Organization or Certificate of Formation. But they all mean the same thing.

LLC start date:

Enter the month and year your LLC was approved.

Note: The month doesn’t have to be exactly precise. It’s okay if it’s a couple months in the past, or a couple months in the future.

Tells us more about the LLC:

Read the following questions and select either “Yes” or “No“, then click “Continue“.

(For most people the answer will be “No”.)

  • Does your business own a highway motor vehicle with a taxable gross weight of 55,000 pounds or more?
  • Does your business involve gambling or wagering?
  • Does your business need to file Form 720 (Quarterly Federal Excise Tax Return)?
  • Does your business sell or manufacture alcohol, tobacco, or firearms?
  • Do you have, or do you expect to have, any employees who will receive Forms W-2 in the next 12 months?

Note: If you’re not sure if you’ll have employees, you can select “No“. This won’t impact your ability to hire any employees in the future.

Apply for EIN LLC Online Members

What does your business or organization do?

Select your LLC’s primary business purpose from the list of given choices.

If it doesn’t fall under any of the choices provided, you can select “Other” and then specify your LLC’s business purpose.

Once you’re done, click “Continue“.

Matt Horwitz, founder of LLC University®

Pro Tip:

  • This choice won’t impact your income taxes. For example, if you switch from a bakery to an online business (or vice versa).
  • Your selection isn’t “set in stone”. You can change your business purpose at any time.
    • And there’s no need to file any paperwork to make this change.
    • This is America, baby! 🇺🇸
    • You can change your LLC purpose as often as you’d like 💪
  • If your LLC will engage in multiple business activities, just choose or enter one of them.

5. Review & Submit

In this section, you’ll decide how to receive your EIN Confirmation Letter. And you’ll review everything before submitting it to the IRS.

How would you like to receive your EIN Confirmation Letter?

We recommend selecting “Receive letter digitally in the next step” as this is the fastest way to receive your EIN Confirmation Letter (PDF).

You’ll be able to download your PDF file right after you submit your application.

A yellow box on the IRS EIN application outlines the option of receiving the EIN Confirmation Letter digitally.

Summary of your information

Review the information you entered carefully. Look for any spelling issues or typos. If you need to fix anything, click the “Back” button.

Once everything looks good, click “Submit EIN Request” to submit your filing to the IRS.

Congratulations, the EIN for your LLC has been successfully assigned!

You’ll see a message confirming that an EIN has been successfully assigned to your LLC.

★ Important (make sure to download your EIN Confirmation Letter):

Click the blue download link to save and print a PDF copy of your EIN Confirmation Letter.

(Take a screenshot too as a backup!)

The IRS EIN Confirmation page allows you to download your EIN Confirmation Letter in PDF format.

EIN Confirmation Letter (CP-575):

The PDF you just saved is called your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575).

Again, make sure you download and save a few copies of this form (before closing your browser tab).

The EIN Confirmation Letter will be 2 pages.

Page 1 looks like this:

IRS CP575 EIN Confirmation Letter for LLC Page 1

And page 2 looks like this:

IRS CP575 EIN Confirmation Letter for LLC Page 2

What happens if I lose my EIN Confirmation Letter?

If you misplace the EIN Confirmation Letter, you can always call the IRS (1-800-829-4933) and request another letter. The IRS won’t be able to issue another CP 575, but that’s okay.

Instead, they’ll issue an EIN Verification Letter (147C).

LLC Business Bank Account

Once you get an EIN for your LLC, you’ll then be able to open an LLC business bank account.

You’ll need the following items in order to open an LLC bank account:

  • EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) or EIN Verification Letter (147C)
  • LLC approval docs (Articles of Organization, Certificate of Organization, or Certificate of Formation)
  • LLC Operating Agreement
  • Your Driver’s License and/or Passport

IRS Phone Number & Contact Information

If you have any questions while going through the online EIN Application (or you receive any EIN reference numbers), you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933.

The IRS hours are Monday through Friday between 7am and 7pm (local time). The earlier you call, the shorter the wait times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I get an EIN Reference Number/Error Message?

If you get an IRS error message (called an “EIN reference number”), please see this page to learn how to fix it: EIN Reference Numbers 101 to 115 (and How to Fix Them)

How to apply for an EIN using Form SS-4?

If you need to file Form SS-4 instead of the online application, you’ll find those instructions here: How to apply for EIN with Form SS-4.

How to get an EIN without an SSN

If you’re a Non-US Resident (and you don’t have an SSN or ITIN), you can still get an EIN for your LLC.

You can follow our instructions here: How to get an EIN without an SSN.

Can I change the EIN Responsible Party for my LLC?

Yes, you can change the EIN Responsible Party for your LLC.

Please see this page: Change EIN Responsible Party for LLC.

How do I change the address on my EIN?

If you need to change the address for your EIN Number, we have instructions here: Change LLC address with the IRS.

References

IRS: About Form SS-4
IRS: About Name Control
IRS: When to Get a New EIN
IRS: Understanding Your EIN
IRS: Instructions for Form SS-4
IRS: Form SS-4 (EIN Application)
IRS: What is a Responsible Party?
IRS: Employer Identification Number FAQs
IRS: Limited Liability Company Information
IRS: LLC Filing as Corporation or Filing as Partnership

Matt Horwitz
Matt Horwitz
Founder & Educator, LLC University®
Matt Horwitz is the leading expert on LLC education, and has been teaching for 15 years. He founded LLC University in 2010 after realizing people needed simple and actionable instructions to start an LLC. He's cited by Entrepreneur Magazine, Yahoo Finance, and the US Chamber of Commerce, and was featured by CNBC and InventRight.
 
Matt holds a Bachelor's Degree in business from Drexel University with a concentration in business law. He performs extensive research and analysis to convert state laws into simple instructions anyone can follow to form their LLC - all for free! Read more about Matt Horwitz and LLC University.
Share this page
X / Twitter
X / Twitter
Facebook
Facebook
LinkedIn
LinkedIn

170 comments on “How to Apply for an EIN for LLC (Online)”

Disclaimer: Nothing on this page shall be interpreted as legal or tax advice. Rules and regulations vary by location. They also change over time and are specific to your situation. Furthermore, this comment section is provided so people can share their thoughts and experience. Please consult a licensed professional if you have legal or tax questions.

  1. Hi Matt,

    I’m an International Student. However, I got a work permit and have an SSN but got noted on it ” for work only”. Should I follow the link to fill the EIN form for Us resident or for foreigners. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Hi R, it’ll be easier to use your SSN, so you can get the EIN right away and don’t have to wait weeks or months.

      Reply

  2. Hi Matt! First of all, thank you for all the knowledge being offered to us.

    I am a non-US resident, however, I have an SSN number I’ve got via J1 visa.
    Recently I formed a single-member US LLC in WY via Registered Agent services.
    Considering I have an SSN, I want to apply online for EIN. I will have to fill in the US address of my RA in both address fields (physical location & mailing) because I have no US presence, and I am ok with that. However, I have read many recommendations I should provide to the IRS my foreign address (home) where I operate the business.

    Can you recommend what to do in my case? I want to stay compliant and fill in the forms 5472+1120 correctly when the time comes, and not be subject to USTOB.

    Reply

    • Hi Victor, which address you use for getting the EIN isn’t what determines ETBUS. Having said that, you can use whichever address you prefer: US address or home country address. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  3. Hello,

    I applied for EIN and when I received confirmation forms. LLC was not added to my company name. Any thoughts on this? I only did 1 member. Could that be the problem?

    thank you in advance.

    Reply

    • Hi Iris, if you chose LLC as the legal structure during the EIN Online Application, but don’t see “LLC” on your EIN Confirmation Letter, this likely means you didn’t enter “LLC” in the name fields. If that’s the case, you can just mail a “name change” letter to the IRS and ask them to update it. Please see here: Change your LLC name with the IRS. And Single-Member LLC (1 owner) is totally fine, and very common. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  5. Hello Matt,
    I appreciate your time here. I am starting an LLC for a small business in Ohio for automotive repair. I was recommended to use an attorney that is going to charge $250 for upfront consultation, plus $300/hr for setting up (or minimum retainer of $750). Is their anything I should know about the benefits of the legal services they provide vs me using the forms to do it myself? What I’m saying is, I’m not a tightwad, and prefer to do things right, but I want to be aware if there are any tradeoffs with doing it the cheaper route of setting it up personally? Please advise

    Reply

    • Hi Ryan, you’re very welcome. The benefit of a (good) attorney is they can be a resource for questions and advice as things progress, however, the way they file the Ohio Articles of Organization is probably the exact same way (or extremely similar) to the way that anyone would file it (ex: you, myself, or an LLC service company). Maybe you’d get a custom-drafted LLC Operating Agreement. However, I wouldn’t say that’s a must. In short, both can work (hiring an attorney or filing yourself). Personally, I’m a bit biased, and I think that doing it yourself helps you learn since you’re more engaged in the process and details, but again, both will have very similar outcomes. Hope that helps :)

      Reply

  7. Hi Matt,

    I recently completed formation of my LLC in WA, and I received UBI number. Thank you for your help. As a LLC I started teaching some of STEM stuff for grade1-8 kids at home, mostly Family Friends Kids for the year, I do want to expand a little bit next year depending upon the response and results I see. 2 of my Minor Kids(14, 10 year) help me with the workshop, so I put my Kids in the LLC as member. Do you see any downside of it, especially EIN requires every members SSN etc.
    Also, I am yet to apply for State/City Business License , What category this kind of LLC goes, is it Education Advisor. does it make any difference? I am using my homes Basement floor for this activity.

    Many thanks and Regards,
    Sushil

    Reply

    • Hi Sushil, in terms of making minor children LLC Members, I’d say there’s no real pro or con. For the category, I think “Private Instruction” might be more accurate. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  8. Hi Matt.
    I had Northwest form my LLC. I tried to apply for EIN tonight after reading through your site. At the end, the IRS said there could only be one EIN per person per day. But I did not apply previously …
    Thoughts?

    Reply

    • Hi Cindy, that error message is normal, but does sound weird. There is a chance that maybe you opted for Northwest Registered Agent to get your EIN. I would check with them first. If they didn’t, then I’d just apply for the EIN again the next day.

      Reply

  9. Hi. This info is all so great!

    When I filed the Articles of Organization of my LLC, I did it under my first and last name (no middle initial). When I did the EIN, the middle initial was not starred as a required field, but the text on screen said “Must match IRS records or this application cannot be processed.” Since my IRS records includes my middle initial, I used that. It that difference going to be a problem?

    Thanks for the info. ~ Pam

    Reply

    • You’re welcome Pam! You have nothing to worry about. No problem at all with that difference.

      Reply

  10. Hi, I made application (free) online for EIN #, they gave me one. Then I requested letter confirmation online but I couldn’t print/save the PDF. And I submitted it. Now they are sending me emails requesting payment to finish (a lot) ????? How can I go again and review it using my EIN# so as to print it so as to open a bank account? Or How can I cancel it to start again?

    Reply

  11. Hi Matt, I formed a LLC company without individual member. Do I have to include an individual member as the responsible party, or this natural person can be the responsible party as a third party?

    Reply

    • Hi Alan, is this your LLC? What do you mean by formed the LLC without an individual member? Do you mean there are zero Members, or do you mean the Member is another company?

      Reply

  12. Hi! I was reading the information about getting EIN in Nevada, and when I completed the form, it was asking for payment of $379 for expedited EIN processing and $239 for Standard processing. I thought it was free? Am I doing it wrong?

    Reply

    • That means you were not on the IRS official website, but instead a “look-alike” website. We have the correct IRS links above on this page.

      Reply

  13. Hello, i was trying to apply online and i have itin number, on the identity check I put my name and last name and number but it dint recognize, i wanted to know if you know why, my last name is G… da S…. , it has spaces and usually last names here has no spaces and only one name, i was wondering if you know what i can do, my itin number is already done and paid two years of taxes so everything is right, and on the irs website my name is with spaces.

    Reply

    • I’m not sure about this. I would try a few times and then call the IRS for assistance, or mail a letter.

      Reply

  14. HI Matt
    I have 2 member LLC in MN and recently changes LLC name, Do i need to apply new EIN? Can I edit the LLC name on the IRS?

    Reply

  15. This was AMAZING!! You answered every question I had and I just got my EIN number! Thanks for providing this video!! You should get paid for this… although I am glad it was free. haha.

    Reply

  16. Hi Matt, I am applying for my EIN online and used Northwest as my registered agent to file my LLC which has been completed. The EIN application ask “where is your LLC physically located” and you have to put in a complete address. It then asks if you “have an address different from the physical where you want the mail to be sent.”
    The first time I applied, I put my physical mailing address as my home address since I thought it would be associated with my SSN. The system said “unable to process at this time.” I tried it again and put in Northwest’s address since that is how the LLC was filed under their address and I got the same same message. “Unable to process at this time.”

    Do you know what address I should be using or should I call the IRS help line? I am trying to figure out if it is something that I am entering incorrectly or if it may be a website issue. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Hi Tanya, the EIN application wouldn’t get rejected due to an address. The IRS treats the address entered as a mailing address. It’s better to use your home address and not Northwest’s address. Did you get an EIN reference number?

      Reply

      • Yes, I did Error/reference 101. I am really bummed out about this. I spoke to a rep at Northwest about this error message and she told me to mail in my application which will take up to 12 weeks! So I called and stayed on hold for over 1 hour to speak to the IRS directly about it. The IRS rep put me on hold did a search with my LLC info (w/Registered Agent info) and my name and SSN and could not figure out why I was unable to submit online successfully. She then told me my only choice now (since the system would not let me process successfully) is to do it be fax (and I should get a response by mid April) or by mail (and get a response my mid June). I paid the expedited fee with Northwest for my LLC formation/filing. I chose not to pay the $50 for them to submit my EIN for me since it was free and appeared to be a simple procedure. Now I am dealing with being at least 8 weeks out to get an EIN and I still need to get my state license and re-sellers permit before I can officially conduct business. Any insight or suggestions will be really appreciated. Thank you!

        Reply

        • Hi Tanya, it’s a really bummer scenario for those that need to file SS-4 by mail or fax. The IRS is backed up because of the pandemic. Even if Northwest applied for the EIN for you, the same thing would have happened. I don’t know any way around it at this time.

          Reply

  17. Hi Matt

    In the section to list your state located and state filed would the state located be the address I used on my LLC paperwork? (Filed in Wyoming. Used Tennessee address.)
    What would I do in the case where it is a multiple member LLC and all members are in different, plus there is no physical location as it is a company operated online? Thinking we just use Tennessee as that member is the contact person for the LLC. Thank you for the great site!

    Reply

    • Hi Jen, you’re welcome! The “state located” is where the LLC is physically located, where the primary business activities take place, or where the LLC records and paperwork are kept (I know, everyone will have copies). In your case, using Tennessee is fine. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  18. Hi Matt, Thanks loads for the tremendous amount of information you provide in the university and in the posts that you reply, this is A major tribute to the society, I personally think that the site is a must for every accountant.

    My question is, I recently changed the members of my NJ LLC, that means I sold my ownership and interest in the LLC to another individual, the new owners tried to apply for an EIN but received an error message stating that the LLC already has an EIN, he therefore filled out an SS-4 form and outlined in paragraph 18 that this LLC received an EIN in the past.

    for some reason I keep on redoing this but not receiving any response from them, what is the official route in such A matter.

    Thank you I really appreciate it.

    Reply

  19. Attorney is trying to submit application for EIN, however submit button doesn’t display

    Reply

    • Hi Marsha, we recommend exiting the application and trying again using a different web browser (example: Chrome, Firefox, or Safari). Hope that helps.

      Reply

  20. Hi Matt;
    When I filled out form it asked if I owned a truck. I have an LLC for a trucking company. My question is : I said NO to owning a truck for my trucking company because I have not bought one yet, is this going to need to be changed when I purchase a truck ?

    thanks

    Reply

  21. Hello,
    I am filling out my IRS EIN application now and the system keeps removing the word “the” out of my LLC company name. My LLC was filed with Texas under The Virtual Advocate. Shouldn’t the IRS application retain the word “The?”

    Thank you,

    Karen Davia

    Reply

    • Hi Karen, that’s totally okay. The IRS does this to “normalize” their records and for a thing called IRS Name Control. Your LLC’s legal name is still The Virtual Advocate LLC (or The Virtual Advocate, LLC). You can find more information here: IRS: How Your Name Control is Assigned. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  22. Do you have or hope to have any employees to file w2 in the next 12 months?
    The answer is yes but i have no projected time. should i say no.
    This is a partnership, not husband and wife.
    Please advise

    Reply

    • Hi Grace, it’s okay if you don’t know exactly when. If you’re pretty sure you’ll have employees (those you’ll pay a W-2 salary, not 1099 independent contractors) working for your LLC, then you can check off yes. This just gives the IRS a heads up to know you’ll be withholding payroll taxes for employees. If you don’t think you’ll hire W-2 employees within the next 12 months, you can select no.

      Reply

  23. This is What is Stated in the Notes
    Due Date
    Your Massachusetts Annual Report is due every year before your LLC’s anniversary date. You can find your LLC’s anniversary date by looking at the date your Certificate of Organization was approved.
    Your first LLC Annual Report isn’t due until the year after your LLC is formed
    So does this mean we have to do our Annual report 11/18/21(Birthd)date or 4/18/21 as advised
    Please clarity
    Grace

    Reply

    • Hi Grace, if your Massachusetts LLC was approved on November 18, 2020, the first LLC Annual Report (filed with the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth) is due by November 18, 2021. Then it’s due every year going forward by November 18th. This is completely different than your LLC’s 1065 Partnership Return (filed with the IRS) that is due every year by March 15th. The first 1065 Partnership Return for your LLC needs to be filed by March 15, 2021.

      Reply

  24. I decided to move forward and put all addresses in Texas since that is where I will be receiving the mail and operating the actual business. However, I am afraid I made a mistake with the name. Because the trade name was not supposed to include the words LLC I got confused and I didn’t include it under the Legal name. So now is Heflin MH Park without LLC at the end. Is this very important do I need to cancel my request?

    Reply

    • Hi Maqui, that part definitely confuses people. If the LLC doesn’t have a Trade Name (aka DBA, Doing Business As, Assumed Name, Fictitious Name) then nothing should be entered for the Trade Name.

      However, in the “Legal name of LLC” field you want your LLC’s designator to be listed (LLC, L.L.C., etc). While you can change the name of your LLC with the IRS, it can take 2 months right now before you get a reply. It’s easier to just apply for a new EIN. And cancel the first EIN. Hope that helps :)

      Reply

  25. Hi Matt, It’s amazing how you continue to respond to everyone.

    I have created an LLC with 4 other partners in Texas. We live here and receive mail in Texas. But the actual business is located in Alabama. Do I have to include the real business address even though we do not recieve any mail there?

    Reply

    • Hi Maqui, thank you! When you say include the real business address, on which form are you referring to? What kind of business is the LLC doing in Alabama?

      Reply

  26. i Got this question and need help
    I was applying for my EIN, Started a new LLC Business NOVEMBER 2020
    I got this alert- The closing month of accounting year: DECEMBER (The closing month of the accounting year is defaulted to December due to your organization type. To change your closing month of the accounting year, complete Form 1128.)
    Should i wait to apply for EIN until January 2021?
    Please Advise

    Reply

    • Hi Grace, the closing month of the accounting year is for taxes and bookkeeping. It doesn’t effect the date your LLC doesn’t into existence. Did you already form your LLC? If yes, is it a Single-Member LLC or Multi-Member LLC?

      Reply

      • Thanks, Matt for the response
        I already formed it, its a Multi-Member LLC
        What was confusing me in the question above is if i get the EIN if i will be requested to File for December 2020 instead of 2021.
        So i guess the meaning here is instead of filing in November 2021, i will be doing that in December 2021.
        Is this correct?

        Thank you in advance
        Grace W

        Reply

        • Hi Grace, you’re welcome :) No, that date is not about when to file, but rather the date the “tax year” ends. So the tax year will end on 12/31. Then, your LLC must file a 1065 Partnership Return (since your LLC is a Multi-Member LLC, it files federal taxes as if it were a Partnership) by March 15th, 2021 (and then every March going forward). Then you file your personal taxes (Form 1040) by April 15th, 2021 (and then every April going forward). Hope that helps.

          Reply

          • Thank You Matt. I thought i file for the first time on the Birthday of the LLC.
            It is not operational yet. So filing in March 2021 will be just months since registration. We registered Nov,18,2020.
            Does March 18, 2020 still apply?
            Please help clarify
            Grace

            Reply

            • Hi Grace, I believe you are confusing the annual federal tax filing requirements (with the IRS) with the LLC Annual Report (with the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth). They are separate filings.

              Reply

  27. You’ve answered a lot of questions that I initially had, but I’m still unclear on one question.

    I am buying an existing business and changing the name, but it will be a few more months before everything is closed on and I actually move into the space to officially take over as owner. When I apply for my EIN for my LLC, do I use my physical address to register the new LLC name or the current address the existing business is operating from?

    Reply

    • Hi Renee, you can use either address you’d like. The IRS isn’t very picky about the address used on the EIN application as it’s just considered a mailing address. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  28. Matt,

    The Articles of Organization that I printed from the KS Secretary of State have a stamp indicating that they are a non-certified web copy. Do I need to get a certified copy from the State in order to open a bank account for the LLC I am creating?

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Hi Ty, you shouldn’t need a certified copy of your Articles of Organization in order to open an LLC bank account. A regular stamped and approved Articles of Organization is usually fine. Having said that, it’s a good idea to call the bank and double-check. Most banks don’t require a certified copy, however, there could be a few that do. When you call, ask to speak to the branch manager. Often, not everyone is familiar with all the LLC paperwork details. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  29. Hey Matt,

    My LLC name is “MPR Enterprises, LLC” but the form says not to put LLC at the end, so I registered it as “MPR Enterprises” should I cancel?

    also,

    My address has a unit number, i entered it as –
    Street / unit and number with “/” inbetween. Think this will cause issues?

    thanks in advance,

    regards

    Reply

    • Hi Matthew, it sounds like you’re referring to the “Tell us about the LLC” step, where the IRS is asking for the legal name of LLC, trade name/DBA (if applicable), county, state, etc. It sounds like you just misread the instructions. It states “The trade name may not contain an ending such as ‘LLC’, ‘LC’, ‘PLLC’, ‘PA’, ‘Corp’, or ‘Inc’.” In the “Legal name of LLC” field, you should enter the full name of your LLC, including the ending (LLC, L.L.C., etc). The Trade name field should be left blank unless your LLC is also doing business under a fictitious name (aka DBA or Trade name). I don’t think the “/” will cause any issues, however, it’s not necessary. You can just enter the address like this: 123 Main Street Unit 12, for example. If the EIN was already issued, we recommend cancelling the EIN and applying for a new EIN. You can apply for a new EIN right away. You don’t have to wait for the initial EIN to be cancelled. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  30. Hi Matt. Just applied for a new EIN for my LLC and forgot to add LLC to the name. Is this a big deal and what can I do?

    Reply

    • Hi Adriana, you’ll want the EIN to properly reflect the LLC and its full legal name. It’s an easy fix though. Just cancel the EIN and apply for another EIN. You can do them both at the same time. You don’t have to wait for the EIN cancellation to be processed. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  31. Hey Matt,

    Thanks for all this info you’ve provided. Super super helpful.

    I have a parent LLC in WY that owns a subsidiary in CA. There are two members. Two questions:

    1) Do I need an EIN for both LLCs? (everything will flow to CA)

    2) When applying for an EIN for the CA subsidiary, do I need to say there are one or two members since this entity is technically owned by one member (the WY LLC)? Meaning, in actuality there are two people in the company, but we operate through this structure for anonymity.

    Reply

    • Hi Josh, you’re very welcome. Yes, each LLC needs its own EIN as they are separate legal entities. When applying for the EIN for the California LLC, you will enter 1 Member (owner) since it’s owned by the Wyoming LLC.

      Reply

      • Okay good to know. I went ahead and did that. And when it asked for a responsible party I put my name as a “member/owner” rather than designated party. I’m guessing that’s correct? Even though my partner and I are not listed in the CA LLC docs as owners.

        Reply

  32. Thank you so much for making this step so easy! Great website and instructions. I just filed for my LLC in the state of Texas and am awaiting my certificate before proceeding with the EIN. THANKS!

    Reply

    • Hi Christine, you’re very welcome! That’s fantastic to hear. Best wishes with your new business!

      Reply

  33. Hi Matt,

    Excellent website! Very well written and loaded with a ton of detailed information.

    We recently established a Multi-Member LLC in Ohio and have decided to elect to be taxed as a S-Corp. When completing the EIN request we should follow the steps to register as a Multi-Member LLC and upon receiving our EIN we then complete IRS Form 2553 to elect the S-Corp status. From what I gathered from your lessons is that establishing an EIN and electing to have the MMLLC taxed as a S-Corp are two separate processes. Am I understanding the process correctly?

    Thank you in advance,
    Dan

    Reply

    • Hi Dan, thank you very much :) You are absolutely correct! You’ll first get an EIN for your LLC and after the EIN has been issued, you’ll separately submit a Form 2553 to request for your LLC to be taxed as an S-Corp. Hope that helps!

      Reply

      • Hi Matt,

        Thanks for such a quick response! Would you mind giving a brief explanation for when I would utilize Form 8832? The form instructions aren’t always clear and I just want to ensure I have a clear picture.

        Thanks again,
        Dan

        Reply

        • You’re welcome Dan. It’s challenging to list out all the use cases, because there are many, but it’s a fairly open-ended question with not a lot of context. In short, it depends. There is some confusing in the LLC/S-Corp space because of this: back many years ago (not sure exactly how many) many accountants used to first have an LLC file an 8832 to elect for an LLC to be taxed as a Corporation. And then they’d file the 2553 to elect for that Corporation to be taxed as an S-Corporation. However, as per 26 CFR 301.7701-3, filing 2553 has the same effect as filing 8832 + 2553. Not sure if that helps at all. But in summary, there is still misinformation online about the need for the 8832 for an LLC electing to be taxed as an S-Corp (answer: it’s not needed). However, if an LLC revokes its S-Corp election, Form 8832 would be used. Hope that helps.

          Reply

  34. Hello Matt,

    I’m trying to get an EIN and running into an error after submitting. The LLC was formed in Delaware and business is in California. Wondering if this is causing the issue. On the page where county and state of business and state of LLC formation info is entered it has California for business state and Delaware for LLC. IS this how it should be?

    Thanks,
    Matt

    Reply

    • Hi Matt, that is likely not what is causing the error. Please see EIN Reference Numbers. That should help you troubleshoot the error message you are receiving. Hope that helps.

      Reply

      • Thanks For the quick reply Matt!

        It is a 109 error so will try again tomorrow. For the “Identity” question when it asks for where is the LLC physically located would I say Delaware (where it was formed) or California where the business address is?

        Thanks again,
        Matt

        Reply

        • You’re welcome Matt! Yes, Error 109 is a “wait 24 hour” one and it’s fairly generic. If you do need to call the IRS, make sure to do so early in the morning (for shorter hold times) as we’re now entering peak filing season. For the “Identify” question, you can select California. Having said that, it wouldn’t have a material impact if you selected Delaware (unless this was a Qualified Joint Venture LLC). Later on in the EIN application, they’ll ask for state where the Articles of Organization, or equivalent (in your case the Certificate of Formation) was filed. Overall, the IRS is looking at the federal tax treatment of the LLC and from an address standpoint, they just want the most reliable address where they can send correspondence. Is your Delaware LLC registered as a foreign LLC in California? If not, it should be since it’s doing business in California. Your LLC will also need to file California Franchise Tax, Form 568, and may be responsible for other California filings as well. Hope that helps.

          Reply

  35. Matt. Great Q&A board. My wife and I created a LLC and obtained an EIN for it (online). I had intended on making this new LLC the sole member/owner/proprietor of a larger “ownership” LLC that will eventually be made up of our LLC and other smaller LLCs. Because the LLC I first created was online, I cannot apply for the “ownership” LLC’s EIN online. Both our LLC as well as the “ownership” LLC have been approved by the secretary of state’s website and have articles of incorporation. According to IRS instructions on filling out the SS-4 (to be faxed), 7-A and 7-B must be completed by an individual and not an entity. How do I properly complete the SS-4 for the “ownership” LLC when it’s sole member is also a LLC? Thank you.

    Reply

  36. Hi,
    I just want to thank you for this site. This site is so cool and helpful. It’s made starting an LLC fun and uncumbersome.

    John

    Reply

  37. Hi Matt,
    I should have found this awesome site earlier. I made a mistake when applying for an EIN number online. I didn’t enter LLC in the legal name.
    What is the best solution to add LLC in the legal name?
    1. Applying for another EIN number again? (Is that okay to have 2 EIN numbers without using one of them?)
    2. or Submitting Form to amend the legal name which takes for weeks?
    3. Is there any way to cancel/remove the previous wrong legal name without LLC?

    Sorry for the too many questions. but please help me fix this issue. If I had known this site, I wouldn’t have made any mistakes..

    Thank you for your awesome site and help.

    Warm regards,
    Charlie

    Reply

    • Hey Charlie, thanks for the kind words :) When you applied for your LLC’s EIN Number, on the first question (“What type of legal structure is applying for an EIN?“), did you select LLC or Sole Proprietor? If you selected LLC, and then later on the “Tell us about the LLC” page, you forgot to enter “LLC” in the “Legal name of LLC” box, then you can just send a letter to the IRS getting the name updated. Please see this page: how to change LLC name with IRS. You can mail that letter, adding “LLC” to your LLC’s name. Also, include a note that you forgot to enter “LLC” in the EIN Online Application. Also include a copy of your approved LLC’s state filing. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  39. Great content! Thanks so much for putting all of this together!

    I have a question about my LLC. I jumped the gun on the first few steps on my small business as I was hoping to grow from a part-time to a full-time business. I got busy with my actual job and life, and never got around to getting my EIN or anything afterwards. I also haven’t actually done any business/performed any services since filing with my state to become an LLC.

    I guess my question is: for tax purposes does the IRS expect me to pay taxes from the moment my state approved my LLC, from the moment I file my EIN, the moment I make money, something else?

    Reply

    • Hey Steve, you’re welcome! No, the IRS doesn’t expect taxes just because there’s an EIN in place for an LLC. As the LLC owner, it’s your responsibility to report any income. Or, if there’s no income and you want to write off expenses, then you could also file in that case. But if there’s no income or expenses, credits, or deductions you want to take, you don’t have to file with the IRS until there is an obligation to do so. Aka, there is income to report. So there’s no harm in obtaining an EIN for your LLC. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  40. Oh My Goodness….this was AWESOME! Thank you….you could not have made this more simple…I really appreciate the STEP-BY-STEP instructions. So helpful and such a savings!!

    I do have a question….not your fault! I left a letter out of the business name when filing for the EIN, however EIN was issued. I have the name correct in the Articles of Organization that I filed.

    How to do I make the correction for my EIN?

    Thanks again, Matt!

    Reply

    • Hi Jerri, you’re very welcome :) Thank you for the awesome comment! Check out change LLC name with IRS. You can mail a letter to the IRS changing the name. I’d also include a note (or a second page) just letting them know you entered your LLC name incorrectly the first time and that’s why you’re changing the LLC name. Make sure to include a copy of your approved state forms. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  41. Hi Matt – while applying for LLC, It was just 1 member (myself). But now I am planning to include additional 2 members on operating agreement. Do I need to apply for new EIN or can continue to use an existing EIN and just need to make election during tax time?

    Reply

    • Hi Sumeet, you don’t need to a new EIN, but you will need to file Form 8832 and change your tax election to Partnership. Unless you want the LLC to be taxed as an S-Corp or C-Corp. But if you’re just starting out, I’m guessing you meant Partnership taxation. You’ll also want to amend your state filing if Members are listed. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  42. I just wanted to say THANK YOU! You guys have helped me understand LLC world, making it easy to understand, well organized and helping us make it as affordable as possible. May God bless your good work!
    A new LLC co-owner!

    Reply

    • Hey Ana, that is lovely to hear! Congratulations! And you’re very welcome :)

      Reply

  43. I’m starting an LLC but currently, don’t own a physical address/ building for the business yet. Do I have to get a building before applying for my E.I.N.

    Reply

    • Hi Lee, no, you don’t. You can use any mailing address you’d like when applying for an EIN for your LLC. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  44. Hi Matt,

    I used Northwestern as company’s registered agent. For the part of the online EIN application that asks for the company’s physical address, should I put my home address (where I work from), or the registered agent’s address? I’m planning on moving soon this year. But I also normally use my home as a place of business and use it as a deduction on my taxes the last few years before the LLC formed.

    Thanks for your help!
    Alex

    Reply

  45. Hi Matt,
    First of all I have to thank you for helping me to file my Certificate of Organization! The step by step guide is just Phenomenal!!!
    On the other hand; I see that in the Certificate of Organization ther is an Entity Identification Number, so is that the same as EIN? So sorry if the question is silly; I just want to make sure that I am doing everything right.

    Also; I have had my business as a sole propietor for a couple of years and now I just form my LLC, so at the time of completing the EIN application it asks “Why is the LLC requesting an EIN? Should I answer: “Change type of organization”.

    Thank you so much!

    Adriana

    Reply

    • Hi Adriana, you’re very welcome :) No, the Entity Identification Number is a state-issued number. It’s different than the Employer Identification Number. Although I see now they both have the same abbreviation. Yea, that could be confusing lol! No, you’ll want to select “Limited Liability Company (LLC)” on the first step of the EIN Application, then “Started a new business” a few steps later. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  46. Hello.

    I filled out an SS-4 to obtain an EIN for an LLC. On the application I mistakenly listed the LLC as 2 members and it should only be a 1 member LLC. In October I submitted, in writing, a request to the IRS to change the LLC to 1 member but have not had a response. Is making this change critical or not a big deal?

    Reply

    • The IRS should respond to written requests within 30-45 days. Yes, you’ll want this updated since their systems are going expect a 1065 Partnership return to be filed. I’d call them this week and ask them to look into it. You want to get it squared away. 800-829-8933. They open at 7am. Call early for very quick response time. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  47. We have formed a 2 member LLC, I understand that we will be taxed as a partnership. When I go to the screen to apply as a partnership I noticed that we cannot add LLC to the name of the business. Will that be a problem when going to the bank to open an account as the LLC?

    Reply

    • Hi Linda, you shouldn’t check off Partnership at that step. You should check off LLC. Then later it’ll ask for the number of members. That’s how the IRS knows to tax your LLC like a Partnership. If you applying incorrectly, you can apply for a new EIN then cancel the first EIN.

      Reply

  48. Hi Matt,

    If I use a regesitered agent and I put my home address for LLC physical location, for county LLC located should I put the county of the registered agent or the county where I live?

    Thank you!

    Reply

    • Hi Melissa, I believe you’re filing in New York. You can put the county where you live in the EIN application. Hope that helps.

      Reply

      • Hi Matt,

        I assume this goes the other way: if I opt to put my registered agent as my mailing address, I should put the county of the registered agent?

        I’ve also seen your comments about preferring to put home address for the “physical location” field. Given I am using Northwest Registered Agent, who can receive and scan my mail for me, is there any downside to me using their address for both physical location and mailing address when signing up for an EIN? I feel like using their address is better for a few reasons:

        1. They are listed as my company’s entity address with the state I am registered in, so it would be consistent with my company’s registration and incorporation papers
        2. I currently rent my house and am likely to move in the next year or 2. Using my registered agent’s address would also allow me to move freely without having to change my address with the IRS
        3. I’d prefer not to receive any type of business correspondence at home.

        Thanks!

        Reply

        • Hi Mike, yes, you can use their county location. Typically, Northwest doesn’t want IRS mail, however, they will still scan and send it to you. So your point #2 and #3 are valid. Point #1 doesn’t matter too much. An LLC can have multiple addresses. And the IRS just treats the address as a mailing address. Hope that helps.

          Reply

  49. Hello! I just filed article of organization and now applying an EIN number. But when I finished all the detailed questions, it is shown：“DECEMBER (The closing month of the accounting year is defaulted to December due to your organization type. To change your closing month of accounting year, complete Form 1128.)” Since I started my LLC legally in December, but not any action yet. Should I fill the form1128? or since there is not any activities in my LLC, should I just ignore it?

    Reply

    • Hi Holly, for accounting and tax purposes, having an LLC run on the calendar year (Jan – Dec) is the most common setup. You may be confusing this and the LLC effective date, but I can’t tell exactly by your question. You don’t need to file Form 1128 unless you want your LLC to run on a fiscal year (instead of a calendar year). Hope that helps.

      Reply

    • Sorry I didn’t follow directions properly. I omitted the LLC at the end of my business name. Is there a way to correct that? Thank you.

      Reply

  50. Hey Matt;
    I was walking thought he UTAH business registration site and it says I need the EIN before I can complete my LLC registration. In your video you recommend completing the state process 1st. I know you have not done a UTAH tutorial yet, but any thoughts on this. Considering my fairly unique LLC naming, I’m pretty confident I can take the chance on timing but wanted to get your thoughts.

    Thanks again for all the great info!

    Reply

    • Hi Todd, looks like Utah’s LLC filing is a “one-stop” process. We haven’t done a deep dive yet, but they usually form your LLC and register it with other state agencies. In the case of the Utah, that’s the Utah State Tax Commission, the Utah Labor Commission, the Utah Department of Commerce, the Utah Department of Workforce Services, and the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (if applicable). This is why they may be asking for the EIN (but I’m not sure if it’s required). You can do as you suggest… apply for the EIN first and hope the LLC goes through later. If there’s an issue, just cancel the EIN and then get another one. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  51. Hello Matt!
    I filed an LLC in my state of Colorado with the a period “.” in the name. I see that this punctuation is not accepted by the IRS when applying for the EIN #. Will it be a problem that my LLC in Colorado has the period “.” in the name, but the EIN does not?
    Thanks in advance for your help!
    Jason

    Reply

    • Hey Jason, short answer is no, it won’t be a problem. It’s not the IRS doesn’t accept them. More technically, they “normalize” they records by ignoring/disregarding/removing it. Most of my LLCs have the comma on the state filing, but my EIN Confirmation Letters don’t show them. It’s super common. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  52. I have an LLC and using a Commercial Registered Agent’s address. When completing my application for my EIN do I use the address for the Registered Agent or my actual home address? I would much rather use the Registered Agent address, but I don’t want to complete the application wrong.

    Reply

    • Hi Su, you’ll want to use the best mailing address for your LLC. For many people, that is likely their home address. Some Commercial Registered Agents, like Northwest Registered Agent, will let you use their address here and then they’ll scan your mail. If you’re using a different Commercial Registered Agent, you’ll want to check with them ahead of time. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  53. Can I add a DBA later on to my LLC after getting an EIN to the EIN? Or is it just attached to my LLC so it won’t matter?

    Reply

    • Hi Umar, correct, it doesn’t matter since the DBA is a “nickname” for your LLC. If your LLC had 20 DBAs, all taxes “flow” to the LLC since all those DBAs are again, just “nicknames” for the LLC. You can create a DBA owned by your LLC at anytime in the future. Hope that helps.

      Reply

        • Hi Bryan, nope. No need to update the EIN if a DBA is added. Basically, the IRS doesn’t care lol. They just care about the entity, it’s EIN, and who owns it. Hope that helps.

          Reply

  54. Matt,
    Thank you for providing this great content. I am a software developer, and I have just branched out on my own as a private contractor. Your site has been an invaluable resource.

    I had a question about my application for EIN that you might be able to answer:

    On the question,“Do you provide operating advice and assistance to businesses and other organizations?” I selected, “Yes.” But, after further reading, I believe I should have selected, “No.” Is this something that I can ammend? Is there any reason to do so?

    Reply

    • Hey Tiffany, you’re very welcome! It’s not a big deal. There isn’t really an easy way to amend the EIN application. Instead, you could cancel the EIN and then apply for another one. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  56. Hi Matt, the newly registered LLC company has the same member just my wife and I and everything stays the same. It has the same name, same members, and everything else is the same. The only difference I can see is the registered date. I just want to get a second opinion. Thank you very much

    Reply

    • Hi Dave, we researched this further and also spoke to the IRS. First, did you file ‘final’ Partnership 1065 returns for years after the LLC was dissolved (I’m assuming 2016 and 2017)? If not, make sure you get that done (even if “zeroed out” returns) since the IRS will be looking for them. The IRS’s rule is this: since you filed a new Articles of Organization you should obtain a new EIN. However, if you use the online EIN application, you’ll get an error/reference number (it won’t work) since the identical LLC name is already linked to your SSN as the Responsible Party. So you’ll need to apply for your EIN with Form SS-4. However, if you don’t property notify the IRS, they’re just going to send you confirmation of your existing EIN (since they won’t recognize that the LLC is new). So, in addition to the SS-4, also send the IRS a copy of your new LLC’s stamped and approved Articles of Organization as well as letter explaining the situation. You can fax it to 855-641-6935 or mail it to: Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999. The IRS will then send you a new EIN by mail or fax. Fax is about 4-7 business days. By mail is about 4-5 weeks. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  57. Hello Matt, I formed a LLC company several years ago in Hawaii. It was dissolved less than 2 years ago. And now I was able to re-register the LLC with the same name again recently and got approved. So my question is that do I need a new tax ID or can I use the same tax ID from before when I first form the LLC company ? Any advise will be very much appreciated. Thank you in advance.

    Reply

    • Hi David, this is an interesting question. I’m not immediately sure about the answer to this. My guess it comes down to is this the same company or is this a new company with the same name? Also is the ownership of the company different now? I believe that’s what the IRS would be most concerned about. Has the business purpose changed? I also recommend running this question by a few accountants.

      Reply

  58. At the step of EIN applying process Where is the LLC physically located? There is a note says: Must be a U.S. address. As an LLC formed by a foreigner, how could the fields be filled?

    Reply

    • Hey Frank, what state did you form your LLC in? Where is your Registered Agent address? Did you hire a Commercial Registered Agent? If so, which company? And do you have an ITIN? If not, you won’t be able to submit the EIN application online, but instead will need to mail or fax Form SS-4 to the IRS. You don’t need an SSN or ITIN to get an EIN for your LLC. We have instructions here for foreigners: how to get an EIN as a foreigner (no SSN). Hope that helps!

      Reply

      • Hi Matt, I formed an LLC in Delaware and I hired HBS did the job. I’m going to apply an ITIN online. When I took a look at your video, I found there is a need for information of Where is the LLC physically located. In my case, what should I fill that field? Thanks

        Reply

        • Hey Frank, thanks for the info. What address is listed as your registered office (“Second”) in your Delaware LLC Certificate of Formation?

          Reply

          • Hi Matt, it’s an address in Delaware. It says like this, is located at xxxxxx Coastal Highway, Lewes, Delaware 199xx.

            Reply

            • Hi Frank, if you’re able to go through the EIN application online (many filers with ITINs get an EIN error message) you’ll use this address for where the LLC is physically located, but check off that your LLC has a different mailing address and enter your address in your country of residence. If filing SS-4 by mail or fax, you can just enter your mailing address located in your country of residence in 4a and 4b, and then for 6, enter “Sussex County, Delaware”. Hope that helps.

              Reply

              • Hi Matt, thank you for your prompt reply. I’d like to go along with your instructions to get ITINs and EIN. I’ll post here about what I come with.

                Reply

                  • Hi Matt, I have just received the fax with EIN on it from IRS. Since I have no SSN or ITINs as a foreigner I have to fill SS-4 form and then faxed it to IRS according to your instructions. IRS has a statement on its web site says you can receive your EIN by fax generally within 4 business days but it’s not true, I received mine at seventh day. It’s not too bad though.

                    Thanks again for your helpful information.

                    Reply

                    • Hi Frank, thanks for your helpful comment. Yes, often when submitting an EIN as a foreigner, approval times can take longer. We’ll make sure to update this page with more details about that. Also, we’ll be making a separate instructional page just for foreigners, so we’ll make sure to include it there as well. Thanks again! *UPDATE* Here’s the new instructions for anyone else reading: how to get an EIN for your LLC without an SSN or ITIN.

  59. What is the importance of waiting for the LLC approval before applying for the EIN? Is it just in case there is an issue with the filing?

    Btw, I have a tip for you in regards to filing in Iowa. You can receive an expedited filing (currently standard wait time is over 3 weeks for filings made by fax/mail/online). if you file in person AND request that the filing be expedited it can be expedited which is 2-3 days currently.

    Great site – thanks for having it!

    Reply

    • Nevermind, I actually watched the video and I now understand why the advice is to wait on the filing before applying.

      Reply

      • Awesome, glad to hear! Thanks for notes on Iowa! Sometimes we leave out the in-person expedited information so we don’t make our content too long and confusing (since not everyone is close enough to file in person and we don’t get asked that much)… however, we’ll think about adding it back in. Thanks for the feedback JD!

        Reply

  60. The information entered in a articles of incorporation form is public, you can pull up an entity’s completed forms on a secretary of state website. In that same way, can you pull up a copy of a completed EIN form for a given entity?

    Reply

    • Hey Jake, great question. No, the information you submit to the IRS is private. It does not go on public record.

      Reply

Leave a comment or question

 Email me when I get a reply.