How to Get an EIN for Your LLC (Fast Guide for All 50 States)
What Is an EIN and Why Does Your LLC Need One?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Think of it as a Social Security Number, but for your company.
Your LLC needs an EIN to:
- Open a business bank account — virtually every bank requires it
- Hire employees — even one W-2 employee triggers this requirement
- File business taxes — multi-member LLCs always need one; single-member LLCs usually do too
- Apply for business credit — lenders use your EIN to pull your business credit profile
- Protect your SSN — using an EIN on contracts and vendor forms keeps your Social Security Number off paperwork
Even if you're a solo operator with no employees and no plans to hire, you should still get an EIN. The privacy protection alone is worth it.
Who Qualifies to Get an EIN?
Any legally formed LLC can get an EIN. The IRS issues EINs to businesses in all 50 states, U.S. territories, and even foreign entities doing business in the U.S.
You can apply if:
- Your LLC is officially formed (articles of organization filed with the state)
- You have a valid Social Security Number or ITIN as the responsible party
- You're a U.S. citizen, resident alien, or have an ITIN
How to Get an EIN for Your LLC: 4 Methods
Method 1: IRS Online Application (Fastest DIY Option)
The IRS offers a free online EIN application at irs.gov. If everything goes right, you'll receive your EIN immediately upon completion. The catch: the portal is only available Monday–Friday, 7am–10pm ET, and times out after 15 minutes of inactivity.
Method 2: IRS Fax Application
You can fax Form SS-4 to the IRS and receive your EIN within 4 business days. Useful if you prefer a paper trail.
Method 3: IRS Mail Application
Mail Form SS-4 to the IRS and expect a 4–6 week turnaround. This is the slowest option and not recommended if you need to open a bank account soon.
Method 4: EIN Filing Service (Fastest, Error-Free Option)
A filing service handles the entire application for you — correctly, quickly, and with verification that your EIN is active. Wi Filings handles EIN applications for LLCs in all 50 states. Not just Wisconsin. Whether you formed your LLC in Texas, California, Florida, or anywhere else — we file it for you.
What the IRS Needs on Your Application
Whether you apply yourself or use a service, the IRS requires: your LLC's legal name (exactly as it appears on your articles of organization), the responsible party's name and SSN/ITIN, your business address, state of formation, reason for applying, number of employees, and principal business activity. Getting any of these wrong can cause IRS rejection or delays.
After You Get Your EIN
- Save your CP 575 letter — this is your official EIN confirmation. Banks and lenders may ask for it.
- Open a business bank account — use your EIN and articles of organization
- Set up accounting software — QuickBooks, Wave, or FreshBooks
- Register for state taxes if required — Wisconsin requires a separate state tax registration for sales tax
Get Your EIN Today — Any State, Same-Day Service
Don't wrestle with the IRS website. Wi Filings files your EIN quickly and correctly — for LLCs formed in any state.
Get Your EIN at Wi Filings →Need Help with Your Wisconsin LLC?
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