You Don’t Need to Pay for an EIN — Here’s Why
A lot of new business owners are surprised to learn they’ve been charged $50, $75, or even more just to get an Employer Identification Number. The truth is, the IRS issues EINs completely free of charge. Every dollar paid to a third-party service for this is entirely optional — and in most cases, unnecessary.
If you’ve just formed your LLC and you’re wondering how to get your EIN without spending a dime, you’re in the right place. The process is simpler than most people expect.
What Is an EIN and Why Does Your LLC Need One?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is essentially a Social Security Number for your business. The IRS uses it to identify your LLC for tax purposes. Even if you have no employees, you’ll likely need one to open a business bank account, file certain tax returns, or work with vendors who require it on file.
Some single-member LLCs can operate with just the owner’s SSN, but having a separate EIN keeps your personal and business finances cleanly separated — which is a good habit regardless of your LLC’s size.
How to Apply for an EIN Online (The Free Way)
The IRS offers a free, fully online application that takes about 15 minutes to complete. No account creation, no fees, no waiting weeks for a letter to arrive. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Go Directly to the IRS Website
Head to irs.gov and search for “EIN online application” or navigate to the EIN Assistant under the Business section. Make sure you’re on the official IRS site — the URL should start with irs.gov, not a third-party lookalike.
Step 2: Choose the Right Entity Type
When the application asks what type of entity you’re applying for, select Limited Liability Company (LLC). You’ll then be asked how many members your LLC has and which state it was formed in. Have that information ready before you start.
Step 3: Fill In the Details
The application will ask for basic information, including:
- The responsible party’s name and Social Security Number (this is typically the LLC owner or a managing member)
- The LLC’s legal name as registered with your state
- The mailing address of the business
- The reason for applying (most new LLCs select “Started a new business”)
Step 4: Submit and Get Your EIN Instantly
Once you hit submit, the IRS generates your EIN on the spot. You can download and print the confirmation letter immediately — that document is your official proof of the EIN and you’ll want to save it somewhere safe. Some banks ask for it when you open a business checking account.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
The online application is only available Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time. If you try outside those hours, the system won’t let you complete it — so plan accordingly.
Also, only one EIN application is accepted per responsible party per day. If something goes wrong and you need to reapply, you’ll have to wait until the next business day.
If you’d rather not apply online, the IRS also accepts applications by fax (Form SS-4) or mail, though those methods can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. For most people, the online route is the obvious choice.
Skip the Third-Party Services
Plenty of legitimate-looking websites offer to “get your EIN for you” for a fee. Some are upfront about what they charge; others bury the cost in fine print. Either way, they’re simply filling out the same IRS form you can complete yourself in under 20 minutes.
Save that money. The IRS application is straightforward, the instructions are clear, and there’s no reason to outsource something this simple. Once you have your EIN in hand, you’re one step closer to getting your LLC fully operational — bank account, business licenses, and all.
