IRS Form SS-4
Apply for an Employer Identification Number for your business or entity.
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About IRS Form SS-4
Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number, is how a business, estate, trust, or other entity applies for an EIN. The EIN is a federal tax ID used to hire employees, open business bank accounts, and file business tax returns.
This page is a general guide and a fillable helper, not tax advice. Always download and file the current official form from the IRS at https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-ss-4 and confirm the fields match. You can often apply for an EIN directly through the IRS as well.
Who needs to complete it
- New businesses that need a federal tax ID to operate or hire employees.
- Sole proprietors who want an EIN instead of using their Social Security number.
- Estates, trusts, and nonprofit organizations that need their own tax ID.
- Entities that must report employment, excise, or certain other taxes.
How to fill out IRS Form SS-4
- 1Enter the legal name of the entity and any trade name it does business under.
- 2Provide the mailing address and, if different, the physical business address.
- 3Name the responsible party and enter their Social Security number, ITIN, or EIN.
- 4Check the box that describes your entity type, such as sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation.
- 5State the reason you are applying, such as starting a new business or hiring employees.
- 6Enter the date the business started and your accounting year, and describe your main business activity.
- 7Estimate the number of employees and note when wages were or will first be paid, if applicable.
- 8Sign and date the form, then submit it by the method described in the instructions.
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Frequently asked questions
What is an EIN and do I need one?
An EIN is a federal tax ID for a business or entity. You generally need one to hire employees, form a corporation or partnership, or file certain returns. Check the IRS rules for your case. This is a general guide, not tax advice.
Do I have to mail Form SS-4?
You can apply several ways, and many applicants get an EIN quickly through the IRS online application. Mailing or faxing the form is another option described in the instructions.
Who is the responsible party?
It is the person who controls or manages the entity and its funds. The IRS uses this to identify who is behind the EIN. Only one responsible party is listed.
Is this the official IRS form?
This is a fillable helper for understanding the fields. Always download and file the current official form from the IRS at https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-ss-4 and confirm the fields match.