You just formed an LLC — congratulations! One of the first questions new owners ask is whether they need an EIN. In most cases, yes. Here’s why.
When an LLC Needs an EIN
- Multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships by default and need an EIN.
- Any LLC with employees needs an EIN for payroll taxes.
- LLCs taxed as a corporation (S-Corp or C-Corp election) need an EIN.
- Foreign-owned single-member LLCs generally need an EIN to meet their annual IRS reporting requirements.
Single-Member LLC With No Employees
The IRS treats a single-member LLC as a “disregarded entity” by default, so for federal income tax the owner may use their own SSN. But in practice, most owners still get an EIN because:
- Banks usually require an EIN to open a business bank account
- It keeps your personal SSN off invoices and W-9 forms
- Payment processors and marketplaces often ask for one
- It helps build business credit separate from your personal credit
How Long Does It Take?
- Online (U.S. applicants with an SSN/ITIN): immediately
- Phone (international applicants): often the same call
- Fax: about 4 business days
- Mail: about 4 weeks
What You Need Ready
- LLC legal name and state of formation
- Number of members
- Business address
- Responsible party’s name and SSN/ITIN (or “Foreign” if none)
- Start date and main business activity
Get Help With Your EIN
EinFilingTax prepares and files your EIN application for you, reviews it for errors before it reaches the IRS, and re-files for free if it is rejected. Start your EIN application →
EinFilingTax is a private third-party service and is not affiliated with the IRS. You can apply for an EIN for free at IRS.gov. This article is general information, not legal or tax advice.
