How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN? (2026 Updated)
Method-by-Method EIN Timing
IRS Online Application: Same Day (If It Works)
The IRS online EIN application is the fastest DIY option. Apply on irs.gov and receive your EIN immediately on screen upon successful submission. Available Monday–Friday, 7 AM–10 PM ET only. Sessions expire after 15 minutes of inactivity — and errors can lock you out or require a phone call to resolve.
IRS Fax Application: 4 Business Days
Complete Form SS-4 and fax it to the IRS. They'll fax back your EIN within approximately 4 business days. Good if you need a paper trail or the online application isn't cooperating.
IRS Mail Application: 4–8 Weeks
Paper mail is the slowest option. Avoid this if you need to open a bank account soon. During high-volume periods (Q1 especially), it can take even longer.
Professional EIN Filing Service: Same Day to Next Business Day
Wi Filings handles EIN applications for LLCs in all 50 states and typically delivers same-day for applications submitted on business days. A filing service submits on your behalf using the IRS online system — but without the timeout risk — and delivers your EIN documentation to you directly.
Why Timing Matters: The Business Bank Account Problem
Most business owners discover the EIN timing issue when they try to open a business bank account. Banks require an EIN before they'll open an account. No EIN, no account. No account, no clean separation between personal and business finances. If you just formed your LLC and want to open your bank account this week, your EIN turnaround directly controls your timeline.
What Slows Down an EIN Application
- Applying outside IRS hours — Applications submitted evenings, weekends, or holidays queue until the next available window.
- Name mismatch — If your LLC name on the application doesn't exactly match your state formation documents, the IRS may reject or delay the application.
- Entity type confusion — Selecting the wrong entity classification requires corrections that can take weeks to process.
- IRS system backlog — During peak periods (January, tax season), online systems experience slowdowns and errors.
How Long Until Your EIN Is "Active"?
When you receive your EIN, it's immediately valid. You can use it to open a bank account, file tax documents, register with vendors, and apply for business licenses. The IRS mails a physical confirmation letter (CP 575) to your business address, which typically arrives within 2–4 weeks. Banks will accept your on-screen EIN confirmation while you wait for the physical letter.
Pro tip: Save or print the on-screen EIN confirmation immediately. If you close the tab, you'll need to call the IRS to recover it.
Get Your EIN Any State, Same-Day Service
If you need your EIN fast, Wi Filings handles EIN applications for LLCs in all 50 states. Submit your information, we handle the IRS, you get your EIN documentation today.
File Your EIN Now →Need Help with Your Wisconsin LLC?
Wi Filings handles formation, registered agent service, annual reports, and more.
Start My LLC — $209 More Articles