Step-by-Step Guide to Reclaiming Your Lost or Stolen EIN Number
How do I recover my EIN number? If you have lost your Employer Identification Number (EIN) and need to retrieve it for tax or business purposes, you’re not alone. Many individuals and businesses face this issue at some point. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to recover your EIN number and provide some tips to help you keep it safe in the future.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that the EIN is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business entity. It is used for tax purposes, such as filing tax returns, opening a bank account, and hiring employees. If you have lost your EIN, you can follow these steps to recover it:
1.
Check your records: Before contacting the IRS, review your files, including emails, letters, and documents that may contain your EIN. It’s possible that you have the number stored in one of these places.
2.
Use the IRS online lookup tool: The IRS offers an online tool called the “EIN Look Up Tool” that allows you to search for your EIN by providing your legal business name and address. To access this tool, visit the IRS website and follow the instructions.
3.
Contact the IRS: If you cannot find your EIN using the online lookup tool, you can contact the IRS directly. Call the Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933, Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. Have your business’s legal name, address, and any other relevant information ready when you call.
4.
Complete Form SS-4: If you are unable to recover your EIN through the online lookup tool or by contacting the IRS, you will need to complete Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number. Fill out the form with your business’s information and submit it to the IRS. You can mail the form to the IRS or e-file it online.
Once you have recovered your EIN, it’s essential to keep it safe to prevent future loss. Here are some tips to help you maintain the security of your EIN:
1.
Keep a digital copy: Store a copy of your EIN in a secure digital location, such as a password-protected file or cloud storage service.
2.
Make physical copies: Keep a few physical copies of your EIN in a safe place, such as a locked drawer or safe.
3.
Update your records: Whenever you change your business’s information, update your records to reflect the new details, including your EIN.
4.
Limit access: Only share your EIN with trusted individuals and businesses who require it for legitimate purposes.
By following these steps and tips, you can recover your EIN number and take steps to protect it in the future. Remember, your EIN is a critical piece of information for your business, so it’s essential to keep it secure and accessible when needed.
