Why You Should Form an LLC Before Obtaining an EIN

Before obtaining an employment ID number, you need establish a limited liability business (LLC) (EIN).

This is due to the fact that when you seek your EIN, you will be requested for the date of company establishment as well as the legal name of the firm.

Before EIN, LLC

Before you can get an EIN, you must first create your LLC. This is due to the IRS requesting your company’s establishment date and legal business name on the EIN application.

Before filing for an EIN, you must first register your company and get state permission for the business’s name.

You won’t be able to be certain of your company name until it has been authorized by your state.

If you get an EIN first and then have your LLC name refused, you must cancel the EIN, re-file your LLC formation forms, wait for LLC approval, and then apply for a new EIN.

Is an EIN Required for My LLC?

We suggest that all LLCs get an EIN; nevertheless, the US Internal Revenue Service mandates EINs for LLCs in the following situations:

One-Member LLC

If your company is a single-member LLC with no workers or excise tax liabilities, you do not need to get an employment ID number.

It is nevertheless encouraged (and often essential) to create a bank account, recruit staff afterwards, and keep your corporate veil intact.

Learn more about single-member LLC EINs.

Partnerships or Multi-Member LLCs

If your company is a partnership or a multi-member LLC, you must get an EIN number. This is due to the fact that the LLC is required to file a partnership return and distribute K-1s to its members, both of which need an EIN number.

The Advantages of Having an EIN

Although an EIN is not essential for your LLC, having one may make it simpler to manage your firm effectively.

Defending Yourself Against Identity Theft

Applying for an EIN rather than your Social Security number (SSN) protects your SSN and reduces the danger of identity theft. If you’re a sole proprietor without an EIN and continue to give out your Social Security number to clients or vendors, you’re putting yourself at risk.

Employee Recruitment

If you have an EIN, you may recruit workers as quickly as they are needed.

Keeping the Corporate Veil Alive

If you’re a single-member LLC, an EIN may help you keep your corporate veil intact. The corporate veil shields business owners from personal culpability for the obligations of the company.

Establishing a Business Bank Account

To create a business banking account, most institutions demand an EIN. Another option to keep your personal and work funds separate is to open a company bank account. It will make monitoring and controlling your professional spending easier.

Improve Your Business Credit

An EIN, like a Social Security number, is used by banking and credit organizations to monitor your business’s credit. Establishing good credit will aid in the financial health of your company, and obtaining an EIN is a necessary step. Having strong business credit may lead to lower interest rates, more loan qualifications, and a greater likelihood of future expansion.

More Business Loans Are Available

Although an EIN is not essential to qualify for all business loans, many lenders prefer a corporation with proven business credit through a business bank account. If you have good business credit, you will have a greater chance of getting a loan. To begin creating credit, you must first get an EIN.

How to Create an LLC

Our free state guidelines might assist you in establishing your LLC even further.

We cover the five stages to creating an LLC in our Form An LLC guides:

Your Company’s Name
Select a Registered Agent
Register Your Limited Liability Company with the State
Make an Operating Agreement for your LLC.
Obtain an EIN

How to Obtain an EIN

The IRS website, which is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., is the fastest and simplest method to get a free EIN.

Form SS-4 may be used to apply for an employer identification number via fax or mail.

If you are submitting by fax, please send your EIN application to (855) 641-6935.

If you want to apply by mail, send it to the Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999.

How do I find an EIN?

If you preserve LLC documents, you may discover your EIN on the EIN confirmation letter that is received when you apply for an EIN. Your EIN may also be located on previous tax returns and paperwork.

If you can’t locate any paperwork with your EIN, you may request that the IRS look it up by contacting the Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933.

How long does it take to get an EIN for a limited liability company?

After completing their papers on the IRS website, eligible EIN applicants obtain their EIN number instantly.

Mail or fax applications might take up to four weeks to complete.

When do I acquire my EIN number after creating an LLC?

You should apply for your EIN number as soon as your LLC is properly established and recognized by the state.

Is my EIN changed when I create an LLC if I are a single proprietor?

If you are a single owner and decide to form an LLC, you will need a new EIN according to IRS regulations.

Is a new EIN required when the ownership of an LLC changes?

If an LLC’s ownership changes by 50% or more within a year, it will need a new EIN. If the ownership changes from one to more than one owner, a new EIN is required.

When does an LLC need a new EIN?

When an LLC’s ownership changes from one owner to numerous owners or from multiple owners to one owner, a new EIN is necessary.

If an LLC is purchased or inherited and then converted to a sole proprietorship, a new EIN is required.