SS4 Form
How to get an EIN with Form SS-4: free online application, key lines for your type of business, and what to do after you get the number.
SS4 form line guide
SS4 form: getting an EIN
Form SS-4 is the application for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Applying online on IRS.gov is free and gives you the EIN immediately; you can also apply by fax or mail, which takes longer. The IRS allows one EIN per responsible party per day. Beware of websites that charge to get an EIN: the IRS never charges.
Key lines
- Line 1: legal name of the entity. Line 7a/7b: the responsible party and their SSN, ITIN or EIN.
- Line 8a–8c: whether it's an LLC and how many members.
- Line 9a: type of entity. Line 10: reason for applying. Line 13–14: expected employees and whether you'll file Form 944.
- Line 16: principal activity.
Next steps: give your EIN on Form W-9 to clients, and if you have employees, file Form 941 each quarter.
Common questions
Does an EIN cost money?
No, applying with the IRS is free.
How fast can I get an EIN?
Immediately when you apply online; fax and mail take longer.
How many EINs can I get per day?
One per responsible party per day.
Sources
More paycheck and tax calculators: Short Term Disability Insurance · Social Security 1099 (SSA-1099) · State Income Tax Rates 2026 by State + No-Tax States · States Without Sales Tax
Related
General information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check important numbers with the official source before acting on them.