Free Guide to Getting a Tax Identification Number

What Is a Tax Identification Number and Why You Might Need One

A Tax Identification Number (TIN) is a nine-digit code that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses to identify taxpayers. Think of it like a Social Security number for tax purposes. The IRS assigns these numbers to individuals, businesses, and other entities so they can track tax filings, payments, and records. Without a TIN, you cannot file a tax return or conduct most financial transactions that require tax reporting.

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There are several types of TINs, and the kind you need depends on your situation. The most common type is the Social Security Number (SSN), which the Social Security Administration issues. If you're a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may already have one. Other types include the Employer Identification Number (EIN) for businesses, the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for noncitizens, and specialized numbers for estates and trusts. Each serves a different purpose in the tax system.

You might need a TIN for many reasons. If you work and earn income, your employer needs your TIN to report your wages. If you run a business, a bank needs your TIN to open a business account. If you're self-employed or have investment income, the IRS needs your TIN to track your earnings and tax obligations. Financial institutions, landlords, and other organizations often request TINs to document financial transactions and report income to the IRS.

Understanding what a TIN is helps you navigate the tax system and prepare for financial interactions. The process of obtaining one varies depending on which type you need and your circumstances. This guide walks through the steps for the most common situations.

Takeaway: A TIN is essential for working, filing taxes, and conducting financial business. Identify which type of TIN matches your situation before moving forward with the process.

Types of Tax Identification Numbers and Who Needs Them

The Social Security Number (SSN) is the most widely used TIN in the United States. The Social Security Administration issues SSNs to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain temporary residents. If you were born in the United States, you likely received an SSN as an infant through the hospital. If you moved to the U.S. as an adult, you would apply for one through the Social Security Administration. An SSN serves as your primary tax identifier for personal income, employment, and most financial accounts.

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An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also called a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations. Sole proprietors may use their SSN instead, but most businesses benefit from having an EIN. Banks prefer EINs for business accounts because they separate personal and business finances. If you plan to hire employees, you must have an EIN. The IRS issues EINs immediately when you apply through their online system—no waiting period required.

The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) serves noncitizens and others who don't have an SSN but need to file taxes or report income in the United States. The IRS issues ITINs to individuals regardless of immigration status. This number has the same format as a Social Security Number—nine digits—but begins with the digits 9 and has specific middle digits (50-65 or 70-88). An ITIN allows someone to file a tax return and claim refunds, though the person cannot work legally based on an ITIN alone.

Adoption Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ATIN) are temporary numbers issued while adoptive parents wait for an adopted child's SSN. Estates and trusts receive their own identification numbers (EIN) for tax filing purposes. Each type serves a specific function within the tax system, and using the correct type matters for accurate record-keeping.

Takeaway: Match your situation to the correct TIN type: SSN for employees and individuals, EIN for businesses, ITIN for noncitizens, and specialized numbers for estates and adoptions. This ensures you follow the correct process and receive the right identification.

How to Obtain a Social Security Number

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and don't yet have a Social Security Number, you can obtain one through the Social Security Administration (SSA). U.S. citizens born in the country typically receive an SSN automatically through the hospital birth process, but this doesn't always happen. If you were born abroad to U.S. citizen parents or arrived in the U.S. as an older child, you may need to apply for one. The process is straightforward and costs nothing.

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To apply for an SSN, visit your local Social Security office in person. You cannot apply online for an initial SSN, though you can replace a lost card or update information in some cases. Bring documents that verify your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. Acceptable identity documents include a valid U.S. passport, state-issued driver's license, or state ID card. To prove your age, bring an original birth certificate or similar vital record. To document citizenship, bring your U.S. passport or certificate of citizenship. Permanent residents should bring their green card or immigration documents.

The SSA processes most applications within 10 business days. You'll receive your Social Security card in the mail at your home address. The card shows your nine-digit number, your name, and your employment status. Keep this card safe but don't carry it with you daily—memorize your number instead. If your card is lost or damaged, you can request a replacement through the SSA website or at a local office.

If you need a replacement card because your name changed, you'll provide your SSN along with documents proving the legal name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Replacement cards are also free. The Social Security Administration maintains a website where you can locate your nearest office, check required documents, and learn more about the process.

Takeaway: Gather identity, age, and citizenship documents before visiting your local Social Security office. Processing takes about 10 business days, and you'll receive your card by mail at no cost.

How to Obtain an Employer Identification Number for Businesses

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is necessary for most businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations. If you're starting a business or forming a nonprofit, you'll need an EIN regardless of whether you hire employees. Banks require an EIN to open a business account. The IRS uses the EIN to track your business taxes and match income reports from customers and financial institutions. The good news is that obtaining an EIN is fast and free.

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The IRS offers the fastest way to get an EIN: apply online through the IRS website. The online application takes about 15 minutes and provides your EIN immediately upon completion. You can use the number right away to open bank accounts and conduct business, and the official confirmation arrives by mail. The IRS accepts online applications from businesses located in the United States and certain U.S. territories. You'll need basic information about your business: its legal name, physical address, mailing address, business type, reason for applying, and the name and Social Security Number of a responsible party (usually the owner).

If you cannot apply online, you can mail or fax Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) to the IRS. Mail applications take approximately four weeks to process. Faxed applications typically receive a response within one business day. You can also call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 to apply by phone, though this method is slower than applying online.

Once you receive your EIN, you're responsible for keeping records of it and using it on all business tax documents, employment forms, and financial accounts. The IRS won't reassign your EIN even if your business closes. If your business structure changes—for example, if you convert from a sole proprietorship to a corporation—you may need a new EIN. Keep your EIN confirmation letter in a safe place for your records.

Takeaway: Apply for an EIN through the IRS website for immediate results. Have your business information ready, complete the online form, and you'll receive your number within minutes.

How to Obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax identification number the I

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