An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a crucial identifier issued by the IRS for businesses, non-profits, and other entities. If you have lost or misplaced your EIN, don’t worry! There are several ways to recover it quickly. In this blog, we will walk you through the steps to retrieve your EIN and ensure you have it stored safely for future use.
Ways to Recover a Lost EIN
1. Check Your Business Documents
Before reaching out to the IRS, try locating your EIN in previously filed documents. Here are some common places where your EIN may be recorded:
| Document Type | Where to Find the EIN? |
|---|---|
| IRS EIN Confirmation Letter (CP-575) | Issued when your EIN was assigned |
| Previous Tax Returns | Found on Form 1120, 1120S, 1065, etc. |
| Business Bank Account Statements | Used during account setup |
| Payroll Documents | EIN is needed for payroll tax filings |
| Business Licenses or Permits | Often required during application |
2. Contact the IRS
If you can’t find your EIN, you can call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line for assistance.
- Phone Number: 1-800-829-4933
- Available Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Local Time)
- What You Need: Be ready to verify your identity as the business owner or authorized representative.
3. Retrieve EIN from the Business Bank
If you used your EIN to open a business bank account, your bank should have a record of it. You can contact your bank’s customer service and request this information.
4. Contact the IRS via Mail or Fax
If you’re unable to retrieve your EIN over the phone, you can request a confirmation letter (Form 147C) by mail or fax.
- Mailing Address: Find the appropriate IRS mailing address here
- Fax: Check IRS website for fax details
5. Prevent Future EIN Loss
Once you recover your EIN, take steps to store it securely:
- Keep digital and physical copies of your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP-575).
- Record the EIN in your business accounting software.
- Store it in a secure business document folder.
FAQs About EIN Recovery
Q: Can I apply for a new EIN if I lost mine?
A: No, the IRS does not issue a new EIN if you already have one. You must recover the existing one.
Q: How long does it take to receive a Form 147C EIN Confirmation Letter?
A: It typically takes 4–6 weeks by mail but can be faxed immediately upon request.
Q: Can I retrieve my EIN online?
A: No, the IRS does not provide an online EIN lookup service for security reasons.
Q: Can I use my Social Security Number (SSN) instead of an EIN for business purposes?
A: In some cases, sole proprietors without employees can use their SSN, but most businesses need an EIN for tax and banking purposes.
Q: What if my EIN is being used fraudulently?
A: If you suspect unauthorized use of your EIN, contact the IRS immediately and report any fraudulent activity to prevent identity theft or tax-related issues.
Q: Will my EIN ever expire?
A: No, EINs do not expire. However, if your business has been inactive for an extended period, you may need to reactivate it with the IRS.
Q: Can I change the name or address associated with my EIN?
A: Yes, you can update your business information by submitting Form 8822-B to the IRS.
Q: What if I never received my EIN confirmation letter?
A: If you never received your EIN confirmation letter (CP-575), you can request a replacement Form 147C from the IRS by calling their Business & Specialty Tax Line.
Related Articles
- How to Apply for an EIN Online
- Do You Need an EIN for an LLC?
- EIN vs. SSN vs. ITIN: What’s the Difference?
Final Thoughts
Losing your EIN is not the end of the world! While it may seem like a frustrating situation, rest assured that there are straightforward ways to recover it. By following these simple steps, you can retrieve your EIN efficiently and ensure it’s safely stored moving forward. Take the time to check all relevant business documents, contact the appropriate authorities, and explore alternative recovery options if necessary. If you need further assistance, reaching out to the IRS directly is always your best bet, as they can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. Staying organized and keeping your EIN handy will help you avoid any future inconvenience, ensuring smooth business operations and financial transactions without unnecessary delays.
For more details, visit the official IRS EIN Information Page.
