Video:How to Request a Federal ID Number
with Marc BeckerRequesting a federal ID number is simple process that can be done online, by phone, or by mail. Watch this video from About.com to learn exactly what you need to do to receive a federal ID number or EIN.See Transcript
Transcript:How to Request a Federal ID Number
Hi I am Marc Becker for About.com and today I will tell you how to request a Federal ID Number.
Apply for the Federal ID Number Online
There are many ways to apply for a Federal Tax Id number, also known as an EIN. You do not need to fill out an SS-4 form in every case. You can apply online through an interview style application, without having to fill out any forms. Simply type “apply online for federal tax ID” in your Internet browser and you will be given list of websites. You need to choose the IRS website identified as www.irs.gov.
Be Aware of Where Your Information is Going
Warning: any time you use the Internet for sensitive information, such as your identification number, be very careful. Also, there are many websites out there offering you their services to apply for your ID number that ask for a fee.
It is a very straight forward process and is possible to manage without any professional help. Once you completed your online application on the IRS website the information is validated during the session, and your Federal Tax ID is issued immediately.
Call for Your Federal ID Number
You can also use the toll-free telephone service to call call the Business & Specialty Service of the IRS at (800-829-4933), the hours of operation are 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. An administrator takes the information, assigns the EIN, and provides the number to an authorized individual over the telephone.
Note: International applicants must call (267) 941-1099 (It's not a toll-free number). Or you can FAX the completed Form SS-4 to your local state office.
Receiving the Federal ID Number
If the taxpayer's fax number is provided, a fax will be sent back with the EIN within four business days.
If you choose the traditional way and mail the SS-4 form, the processing time is four weeks. You can get the address where to mail the form - if you go to the “Where to File your Taxes - form SS-4" on the IRS website.
Thank you for watching and to learn more go to our website at About.com.