If you’re starting a new business, you’ve likely come across the term EIN. But what exactly is it, and how do you get an EIN for your LLC? Whether you're a solopreneur or launching a growing startup, this step is critical for your business to operate legally and securely.
In this comprehensive guide, Smart Filing walks you through everything you need to know about obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your LLC—what it is, why you need it, and the easiest way to get one without dealing with paperwork headaches.
What Is an EIN?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is a unique 9-digit number issued by the IRS to identify your business for tax and legal purposes.
Think of it as a Social Security number—but for your business.
Why You Need an EIN for Your LLC
Even if you're a single-member LLC with no employees, there are many scenarios where an EIN is not just helpful—but absolutely necessary.
You’ll Need an EIN to:
- Open a business bank account
- File business taxes
- Apply for business licenses and permits
- Hire employees and process payroll
- Build business credit
- Separate your personal and business finances
🚫 Don’t use your Social Security number for business purposes. An EIN helps protect your personal identity and keeps your business professional.
How Do I Get an EIN for My LLC?
There are three main ways to get an EIN for your LLC: online, by mail, or by using a third-party filing service like Smart Filing.
Let’s walk through each method.
Option 1: Apply for an EIN Online (DIY Method)
You can apply for an EIN yourself through the IRS website, which is available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time.
How to apply online:
- Visit the official IRS EIN application page.
- Select “Limited Liability Company (LLC)” as your entity type.
- Enter details about your business, such as:
- Legal name
- Responsible party’s name and SSN/ITIN
- Business address
- Number of members
- Legal name
- Review and submit your application.
- Receive your EIN immediately after submission (PDF confirmation).
🧠 Important Notes:
- Only available to entities located in the U.S. or U.S. Territories.
- The applicant must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (SSN, ITIN, or EIN).
- You can only apply for one EIN per day per responsible party.
Option 2: Apply for an EIN by Mail or Fax
If you prefer a paper application, or if you're a non-U.S. resident without an SSN or ITIN, you can apply using Form SS-4.
Mail/Fax Instructions:
- Fill out IRS Form SS-4.
- Mail to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999 - Or fax to:
(855) 641-6935 (if you have a U.S. address)
(304) 707-9471 (if international)
📬 Processing time:
- Mail: ~4 weeks
- Fax: ~4–7 business days
📉 Slower and less convenient than the online method—but still doable.
Option 3: Let Smart Filing Handle It for You
If you're already forming your LLC (or have recently formed one), you can bundle EIN filing with your business registration. That’s where Smart Filing comes in.
Why let Smart Filing get your EIN?
✅ No IRS forms or wait times
✅ Guaranteed accuracy
✅ EIN delivered securely to your inbox
✅ EIN service bundled with LLC formation for maximum savings
We handle EIN filing directly with the IRS and ensure your business gets off the ground with everything it needs—without the paperwork hassle.
When Should You Apply for an EIN?
You should apply for an EIN as soon as your LLC is legally formed. In many states, this means after you file your Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation.
💡 Smart Tip: If you try to apply for an EIN before your LLC is officially registered, the IRS may reject your application.
What If You Made a Mistake or Lost Your EIN?
If you applied online:
- Your EIN is usually provided immediately.
- If you lost it, check the confirmation email or contact the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: (800) 829-4933
If you applied by mail:
- Contact the IRS to check on the status or request a copy of your EIN.
If you applied through Smart Filing:
- Just log in to your dashboard or contact our support team—we’ll re-send your EIN any time.
Frequently Asked Questions
💡 Do I need an EIN if I’m a single-member LLC?
Yes, especially if you want to open a business bank account, apply for licenses, or hire employees—even if you have no staff yet.
💡 Can I use my SSN instead of an EIN?
You can, but it's not recommended. Using an EIN adds professionalism, protects your personal identity, and keeps finances separate.
💡 Is getting an EIN the same as registering my business?
No—getting an EIN is just one step. You must form your LLC with your state before applying for an EIN.
Get Your EIN Today—The Smart Way
You started your business to pursue your passion—not fill out government forms. At Smart Filing, we take the stress out of starting and running a business.
Our EIN Service Includes:
- ✅ EIN filing through the IRS
- ✅ Secure delivery of your EIN letter
- ✅ Support from real business filing experts
- ✅ Option to bundle with your LLC formation
🎯 Whether you're forming a new LLC or need an EIN for an existing one, Smart Filing makes it fast, accurate, and easy.
👉 Get Your EIN Today at SmartFiling.com
Final Thoughts
Getting an EIN for your LLC is a small step with a big impact. It opens the doors to financial services, hiring, tax filing, and business legitimacy. If you’ve been wondering, “how do I get an EIN for my LLC?”, now you know exactly what to do—and you don’t have to do it alone.
Let Smart Filing handle the paperwork while you focus on building your business.