EIN: The Tax Identification Number Your Business Needs in California

When you form an LLC or corporation in California, one of the first steps is getting an EIN — Employer Identification Number. It's basically your business's Social Security number.

The good news: it's completely free and you can get it on the IRS website in less than 15 minutes.

What Is an EIN and What Is It For?

An EIN is a 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. You need it to:

• •Open a business bank account
• •File federal and state tax returns
• •Hire employees legally
• •Apply for business licenses
• •Sign contracts and professional agreements
• •Set up merchant payment services

Who Needs an EIN?

You need an EIN if:

• •You formed an LLC or corporation
• •You have or plan to have employees
• •You file certain federal tax returns
• •You have a Keogh retirement plan
• •You inherited a business or acquired one through estate

Sole proprietors without employees can use their Social Security number for many purposes, but an EIN is strongly recommended to protect your SSN and project more professionalism.

How to Get Your EIN — Step by Step

Option 1: Online (fastest — 15 minutes)

1. 1.Go to IRS.gov/ein
2. 2.Select "Apply Online Now"
3. 3.Choose your business type (LLC, corporation, sole proprietor, etc.)
4. 4.Answer questions about your business
5. 5.Enter the responsible party's information (owner)
6. 6.Review and submit
7. 7.Receive your EIN immediately on screen — print or save it

Option 2: By fax (4 business days) Download Form SS-4, complete it, and fax to the IRS. Option 3: By mail (4-5 weeks) Same Form SS-4 but sent by mail. Option 4: By phone (international applicants) Call the IRS at 267-941-1099.

Important: Who Can Apply

The IRS requires the "responsible party" — the person applying for the EIN — to have a valid SSN or ITIN. This is one of the key reasons why undocumented immigrants should first obtain an ITIN before forming their business.

EIN for Undocumented Immigrants

Yes, you can get an EIN without a Social Security number if you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). The ITIN is obtained from the IRS and allows you to:

• •Apply for an EIN
• •File your taxes
• •Open certain bank accounts

What to Do With Your EIN

Once you have your EIN:

1. 1.Save it securely — you'll need it repeatedly
2. 2.Open your business bank account — bring the EIN letter
3. 3.Register with the California Franchise Tax Board — if you have an LLC
4. 4.Set up payroll if you have employees
5. 5.Get your business licenses at city and county level

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the EIN free? Yes, 100% free directly from the IRS. Never pay a service just to get an EIN — that's a common scam. Can I use my SSN instead of EIN? For sole proprietors without employees, yes — but using an EIN protects your SSN and looks more professional. What if I lose my EIN? Call the IRS at 800-829-4933 and they can give it to you again. Also check your original EIN confirmation letter. Does the EIN expire? No. Once assigned, your EIN is permanent. Even if you close and reopen the business. 👉 Form My LLC with EIN Included — Multi Servicios 360

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Multi Servicios 360 is a self-help legal document preparation service. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. This information is educational.