Misplaced your LLC’s EIN? Don’t worry – retrieving it is simple. Your EIN, assigned by the IRS, is essential for taxes, banking, and compliance. Here’s a quick guide to find it:
- Check IRS Documents: Look for your EIN confirmation letter (CP-575) or other IRS forms like tax returns (Form 1120, 941, or 940).
- Review Business Records: Search bank statements, loan documents, or business licenses. Your EIN is often listed there.
- Call the IRS: Contact the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800‑829‑4933 (Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. local time). Be ready to verify your identity.
- Protect Your EIN: Store it securely in a fireproof safe or encrypted digital platform like BusinessAnywhere.
Pro Tip: Avoid delays by starting with the most accessible documents and calling the IRS as a last resort.
For international callers, use 267‑941‑1099 (not toll-free). Keep your EIN safe – it’s as important as your Social Security Number.
Find Your EIN in IRS Letters and Documents
When you register for an EIN, the IRS provides official documentation containing the number. These papers are often the go-to source for business owners needing to locate their EIN, as they are reliable and straightforward.
Check Your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP-575)
The CP-575 Notice is the official letter the IRS sends once your EIN application is approved. This document includes your nine-digit EIN, your LLC’s legal name and address, and the date the IRS assigned the number. It’s one of the most direct ways to verify your business’s EIN and establish its legitimacy.
If you’ve misplaced your CP-575 letter, the IRS won’t issue a duplicate. However, you can request an EIN Verification Letter (Form 147C) instead. This serves as an official confirmation of your EIN. Additionally, your CP-575 Notice may list federal tax forms your LLC is required to file, giving you a head start on managing tax responsibilities.
If you no longer have access to the CP-575, don’t worry – other IRS documents can help you find your EIN.
Look at Past Tax Returns and IRS Notices
Your EIN is recorded on various IRS forms and documents, offering multiple ways to retrieve it. For instance, if your business has filed Form 1120 (U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return), you can find your EIN in the top-right corner of the first page. These tax returns are a dependable backup when the original confirmation letter is unavailable.
IRS correspondence, such as tax notices, penalty letters, or audit-related communications, also prominently displays your EIN. Another useful resource is a business tax transcript, which includes an entity transcript confirming the details in IRS records, including your EIN.
Other common forms where your EIN appears include Form 941 (Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return) and Form 940 (Employer’s Annual Federal Unemployment Tax Return). Reviewing these forms ensures you have several options for locating your EIN when needed.
Check Your Business and Bank Records
Your business and financial records are often the easiest places to find your EIN. Banks and lenders require this information when setting up accounts or processing applications, so these documents can be a solid backup if you’ve misplaced your original IRS paperwork.
Here’s how you can locate your EIN within your records.
Review Bank Account Documents
When you opened your business bank account, your bank would have recorded your EIN. The paperwork from setting up your account should include this number.
In many cases, your monthly bank statements also display the EIN. However, some banks may only show the last four digits, masking the rest (e.g., "XX-XXX1234"). If that’s the case, you can contact your bank’s customer service team and request a statement that shows the full number.
Your online banking portal might also list your EIN alongside your account details. Additionally, if your bank helped you set up merchant services or processed business loan applications, they would have recorded your EIN as part of their verification process.
Check Loan Papers and Business Licenses
Loan documents are another reliable source for finding your EIN. Lenders use this number to verify your business’s tax status, so it’s typically included in sections that outline borrower information or tax identification details. Look for your EIN near your business name and address in these documents.
Similarly, state or local business licenses often display your EIN along with other key details about your company. If you have digital copies of these licenses, you can use the search function to look for terms like "EIN" or "Tax ID."
If locating physical or digital copies of these documents proves challenging, reach out to the issuing organizations. Your bank’s representative may be able to provide copies of account applications or loan records that include your EIN. Likewise, licensing agencies can often email you a digital copy of your business license with the EIN clearly listed.
Call the IRS to Get Your EIN
If your search efforts for your EIN come up empty, don’t worry – you can call the IRS directly. They’ll provide your EIN over the phone after confirming your identity and verifying that you’re authorized to access the information. Here’s how to proceed:
Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line
The IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line is your go-to resource for EIN-related inquiries. Dial 800‑829‑4933, available Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time (Alaska and Hawaii follow Pacific Time).
When you call, let the representative know you’re an LLC owner trying to retrieve a lost EIN. You can also ask for an EIN Verification Letter (147C), which serves as official proof of your EIN for future needs. Be prepared to verify your identity by providing details such as:
- Your name and position within the business
- Your registered business address
- Information about your tax filing history
Keep in mind that only the LLC owner or an individual with a Power of Attorney on file with the IRS can access this information. To save time, try calling during non-peak hours to avoid long wait times.
IRS Contact Options for International Callers
If you’re outside the U.S., you’ll need to use alternative methods to contact the IRS, as standard online services aren’t accessible. For phone support, international callers can reach the IRS at 267‑941‑1099 (note: this is not a toll-free number). Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Before calling, it’s a good idea to complete Form SS‑4, as the representative will ask questions based on the information provided in that form. Only authorized individuals can request EIN details.
Here’s a quick summary of contact methods for international callers:
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | 267‑941‑1099 (not toll-free); Mon–Fri, 6:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m. ET |
| Fax | Send completed Form SS‑4 to 855‑215‑1627 (within the U.S.) or 304‑707‑9471 (outside the U.S.) |
| Send completed Form SS‑4 to: Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN International Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999 |
International callers should expect the same identity verification process as domestic callers. Make sure you have all your business information ready when reaching out to the IRS.
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How to Keep Your EIN Safe for the Future
Once you’ve located your EIN, the next step is ensuring its security to protect your business in the long run. Cases of EIN fraud and business identity theft are on the rise, making it crucial to safeguard this vital piece of information.
"Your EIN deserves the same level of protection as your personal Social Security Number." – Cybersecurity Expert
Secure Storage for Your EIN
Your EIN should be stored in a way that protects it from both physical and digital threats. For physical documents, such as your CP-575 letter, opt for a fireproof safe or a secure deposit box. For digital records, use an encrypted cloud service with strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
To stay organized, consider keeping your EIN documents alongside other critical business records, such as your LLC operating agreement, banking resolutions, and tax returns. A well-labeled filing system – both physical and digital – can make retrieval easier. You might also compile a master business information sheet containing all your essential company details, but ensure this document is stored securely with limited access.
For those seeking a more streamlined way to manage important documents, digital platforms offer robust solutions.
Manage EIN Documents with BusinessAnywhere
While manual storage methods are effective, a digital document management platform can enhance both security and convenience. BusinessAnywhere provides a secure, centralized solution for protecting your EIN and other key business records. The platform’s Document Management Dashboard ensures encrypted, 24/7 access to your EIN confirmation letter, operating agreements, compliance documents, and more.
By consolidating your records in one place, you reduce the risk of losing critical paperwork spread across multiple storage systems. BusinessAnywhere also offers features like automatic compliance alerts and reminders for annual filings, helping you stay on top of deadlines tied to your EIN. With transparent pricing and a focus on ease of use, it’s a valuable tool for LLC owners looking to simplify document management.
When it comes to sharing your EIN, exercise caution. Always verify the identity of the requester and use secure methods for transmission. Common legitimate requests for EINs come from banks (for W-9 forms), vendors (for payment processing), and government agencies (for compliance purposes).
"Proper EIN handling means more than just sharing when asked – it means knowing exactly who truly needs it and why." – Tax Expert
Comparison Table: Best Ways to Find Your EIN
Here’s a quick comparison of methods to locate your EIN effectively:
| Method | Speed | Reliability | Requirements | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IRS Documents (CP 575) | Immediate (if available) | Highest – Official IRS source | Must have original documents | Businesses with well-organized files |
| Business Records Review | Immediate (if accessible) | Moderate – Depends on record accuracy | Access to bank statements, licenses, etc. | Quick checks when records are available |
| IRS Phone Line | Same day | High – Direct confirmation from IRS | Identity verification and business details | When documents are missing or inaccessible |
| Online IRS Application | Immediate | Highest – Real-time validation | New EIN application only | Not for retrieving an existing EIN |
Key Insights on These Methods
- IRS Documents such as the CP 575 notice are the most reliable source if you’ve kept them handy. These official documents are issued directly by the IRS when your EIN is created.
- Business Records, like bank statements or licenses, can also help you locate your EIN quickly. However, this method depends on how accurately your records are maintained.
- IRS Phone Line is a solid fallback for lost or unavailable documents. You can call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800‑829‑4933 for assistance. Be prepared to verify your identity and provide key business details. For international LLCs, the number to call is 267‑941‑1099.
- Online IRS Application is only for obtaining a new EIN, not for retrieving an existing one. It’s a fast and free option for new businesses, with immediate confirmation upon approval.
"Use this tool to get an EIN directly from the IRS in minutes for free. Answer questions and submit the application. If it’s approved, we’ll issue your EIN immediately online."
– Internal Revenue Service
Pro Tip for Efficiency
A combined approach often works best. Start with your most accessible business records, like bank statements or licenses. If you can’t find your EIN there, check any correspondence from the IRS, such as the CP 575 notice. As a last resort, call the IRS for direct confirmation. This step-by-step strategy ensures you save time while getting the most reliable results.
This comparison table and tips can help you choose the method that aligns with your current situation and available resources.
Conclusion: Main Points for Finding and Protecting Your EIN
To locate your LLC’s EIN, start by checking the IRS EIN confirmation letter (CP 575), which is sent right after your application is approved. If you can’t find this document, your next step should be reviewing your business records.
Still can’t locate it? Look through your tax returns and business documents, as these often include the EIN and can save you time without needing outside help.
If all else fails, contact the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800‑829‑4933. They’re available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. Keep in mind, only authorized individuals can retrieve an EIN this way, and you’ll need to verify your identity and authority.
Once you have your EIN, make protecting it a priority. Use encrypted digital tools or a fireproof safe for secure storage. Digital solutions, like BusinessAnywhere’s Document Management Dashboard, allow for secure storage and easy access, reducing the risk of losing important documents.
Protecting your EIN is just as important as finding it. Your EIN is essential for tax filings, banking, and staying compliant. Share it only with trusted parties to avoid fraud.
FAQs
What should I do if I can’t find my LLC’s EIN in my records?
If you can’t find your LLC’s EIN in your business records or past IRS correspondence, don’t worry – help is just a phone call away. You can reach the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 for assistance in verifying or retrieving your EIN.
Before you dial, make sure you’ve got the following details handy:
- Your name and role in the LLC (like owner or authorized representative)
- The LLC’s legal name and address
- Any other identifying information, such as the date the EIN was issued
The IRS representative will likely ask for these details to confirm your identity and ensure you’re authorized to access the EIN. Their phone lines are open Monday through Friday during regular business hours, so plan your call accordingly.
How can I keep my EIN secure and prevent fraud?
To keep your EIN safe and shield it from misuse, treat it as you would any other sensitive information. Store it securely – whether in a locked file cabinet or an encrypted digital file – and only share it when absolutely necessary. If you need to use your EIN online, make sure your accounts are protected with strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.
Keep a close eye on your business accounts and credit reports to spot any unusual activity early. If your EIN is ever lost or stolen, have a plan ready to report it and act quickly to prevent any unauthorized use. Staying alert and prepared is key to protecting your EIN and your business.
What can international business owners do to retrieve their EIN if they can’t call the IRS?
If you’re an international business owner and can’t call the IRS, you can still get your EIN by faxing or mailing Form SS-4 to them. Make sure to include a return fax number on the form. This way, the IRS can send your EIN back to you in about four business days. Since online applications aren’t available for international applicants, fax or mail remains the most reliable method.
