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What Is an EIN?

Written byRegistryWise Editorial TeamFact-checked against official sources · How we research

The short answer

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a nine-digit federal tax ID the IRS issues to businesses, written like 12-3456789. It's free from the IRS. It isn't the number a state gives your LLC when you register it.

Also called: Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), Federal tax ID

On this page
  1. Who needs one
  2. EIN vs. state number

Who needs one

You need an EIN to hire employees, and in most cases if your LLC has more than one member or is taxed as a corporation. Banks usually ask for one to open a business account, so most LLCs get one even when it isn't strictly required.

Apply directly with the IRS. It's free, and the online application gives you the number when you finish.

EIN vs. state number

The IRS issues the EIN. The state where you formed the LLC issues a separate file or document number. Different agencies, different numbers, and you'll be asked for both.

Related terms

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Sources

We take every fee, deadline and rule on this page from these pages and nowhere else. Rules change, so open the source before you pay anything.

  1. 1.IRS: Get an employer identification numberChecked November 8, 2026

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