How to Get a Federal EIN for Your NYC Business
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Call to Action:Is your NYC business ready for growth? Don’t wait—start the process to get a federal EIN now to unlock banking, hiring, and tax benefits!
Table of Contents
1. Why You Need a Federal EIN for Your NYC Business
2. Determine Eligibility & Required Information
3. Apply Online: Quickest Method
4. Mail, Fax, or Phone Options
5. After You Get Your EIN: Next Steps
6. Common FAQs About Getting a Federal EIN
1. Why You Need a Federal EIN for Your NYC Business
A federal EIN (Employer Identification Number) acts as your business’s Social Security number—it's essential for:
Hiring employees
Opening a business bank account
Filing federal tax returns
Applying for business licenses and permits
In NYC, even if you’re a sole proprietorship, securing a federal EIN is smart—it separates business finances, allows you to apply for licenses, and elevates your credibility.
2. Determine Eligibility & Required Information
Before you apply to get a federal EIN, prepare:
Entity type: sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, corporation
Responsible party’s SSN or ITIN (or EIN of parent entity)
Business address in the U.S. (P.O. boxes not allowed online)
Filing the IRS SS-4 form: have checked the correct boxes for structure and reason for applying
3. Apply Online: Quickest Method
To get a federal EIN, the easiest route is online via the IRS:
The EIN Assistant is free and available Monday–Friday, 7 a–10 p m ET
Must complete in one session (15-minute timeout)
Upon completion, you receive your EIN instantly and can download the EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575)
Tip: Ensure your entity is properly formed with the NY DOS before applying to avoid delays .
4. Mail, Fax, or Phone Options
If online isn't feasible, here are alternatives to get a federal EIN:
Fax: Send Form SS‑4 to 855-641-6935 (domestic); expect reply in ~4 business days
Mail: Send SS‑4 to IRS Cincinnati; receive EIN in approx. 4 weeks
Phone: For businesses with principal outside the U.S., call 267-941-1099 to apply via phone
International applicants should use phone or fax—online isn't available to them
5. After You Get Your EIN: Next Steps
Once you get a federal EIN, here’s what to do next:
Open business bank account using EIN Confirmation Letter
Register with NYS Dept of Tax & Finance for sales tax (if selling goods)
Obtain NYC or state business licenses or permits
File state employment taxes with NYS Department of Labor if hiring
Keep your SS-4 and CP-575 in safe records—required for loan, license, or bank applications
6. Common FAQs About Getting a Federal EIN
Question | Answer |
Is it required if I'm solo? | Not technically—SSN suffices—but EIN separates personal/business finances (llcuniversity.com, quickbooks.intuit.com) |
What if I relocate my business later? | Use Form 8822-B to update IRS; EIN stays the same |
Need a new EIN for structure changes? | Yes—e.g., from sole prop to corporation |
Can I apply more than once a day? | No—limited to one EIN per responsible party per day |
7. Summary & Your Next Move
✅ To get a federal EIN, prepare your info and entity details
✅ Apply online for instant approval; otherwise use fax, mail, or phone
✅ Use EIN to open accounts, file taxes, hire, and legitimize your NYC business
✅ Stay compliant: update the IRS with any changes and maintain quality records
Next step: Visit the IRS EIN Assistant now and take control—securing your federal EIN is your gateway to full business potential in NYC!
