Getting an EIN can take anywhere from immediate to several weeks, depending on how you apply. The online method is fastest, giving you an EIN within minutes. Here’s what to expect from each application method.
EIN Processing Times by Method
| Application Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online | Immediate |
| Fax | 4 business days |
| 4-5 weeks | |
| Phone (international) | Immediate |
Online Application: Instant EIN
The IRS online EIN application is the fastest option. You receive your EIN immediately upon completing the application.
How It Works
- Go to irs.gov/ein
- Complete the online interview (10-15 minutes)
- Submit your application
- Receive EIN instantly on screen
When It’s Available
Hours: Monday – Friday, 7 AM – 10 PM Eastern Time
Important: The system is unavailable on weekends and federal holidays. Plan accordingly if you need an EIN urgently.
What You Get
Upon completion, you’ll see:
- Your assigned EIN
- Option to print or save confirmation
- Instructions for next steps
Save immediately: Print or download your confirmation before closing the browser. You cannot retrieve it later from the IRS website.
Limitations
The online system requires:
- A responsible party with a valid SSN or ITIN
- A U.S. business address
- Internet access during IRS operating hours
If you don’t meet these requirements, use an alternative method.
Fax Application: 4 Business Days
Faxing Form SS-4 is the second-fastest option.
How It Works
- Download Form SS-4 from irs.gov
- Complete all required fields
- Include a return fax number
- Fax to the IRS
Fax Numbers
Fax your completed SS-4 to: 855-641-6935
Timeline
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| IRS receives fax | Day 1 |
| IRS processes application | Days 2-3 |
| IRS faxes EIN to you | Day 4 |
Total: About 4 business days
Tips for Fax Applications
- Use a reliable fax machine or service
- Keep your fax line clear for the return fax
- Include a cover sheet with your contact information
- Make sure all fields are legible
Mail Application: 4-5 Weeks
Mailing Form SS-4 is the slowest method but works when other options aren’t available.
How It Works
- Download and complete Form SS-4
- Mail to the IRS processing center
- Wait for EIN assignment letter
Mailing Address
Internal Revenue Service Attn: EIN Operation Cincinnati, OH 45999
Timeline
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Mail delivery to IRS | 3-7 days |
| IRS queue processing | 2-3 weeks |
| IRS processes application | 3-5 days |
| Return mail delivery | 3-7 days |
Total: 4-5 weeks (sometimes longer)
When to Use Mail
- No internet access for online application
- No fax available
- International applicants without U.S. phone access
- Complex applications requiring documentation
Phone Application: Immediate (International Only)
International applicants can call the IRS to receive an EIN verbally.
Who Qualifies
This method is for applicants without a U.S. address or SSN who cannot use the online system.
Contact Information
Phone: 267-941-1099 (not toll-free) Hours: Monday – Friday, 6 AM – 11 PM Eastern Time
Timeline
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Call IRS | 10-30 minutes |
| IRS assigns EIN | During call |
| Written confirmation arrives | 4-6 weeks |
You receive the EIN immediately during the call, though written confirmation takes weeks.
Why Processing Times Vary
Online Is Fastest Because
- Automated system handles routine applications
- No human processing required for standard cases
- Digital transmission is instant
Mail Is Slowest Because
- Physical mail takes time to arrive
- Applications enter a processing queue
- Manual handling at each step
- Return mail adds more time
How to Expedite Your EIN
Use Online First
Always try the online application first. It’s free, fast, and available most business hours.
Apply During Off-Peak Times
The online system handles high volume. Try:
- Early morning (7-8 AM Eastern)
- Mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday)
- Non-deadline periods (avoid January, April)
Have Information Ready
Prepare all required information before starting:
- Business name and address
- Responsible party SSN/ITIN
- Business structure details
- Formation date
Completing the application quickly reduces timeout risk.
Avoid Common Errors
Mistakes cause delays or rejection:
- Name must match formation documents exactly
- SSN must be valid
- Address must be complete
- Business type must be accurate
After You Receive Your EIN
Immediate Use
You can use your EIN immediately for most purposes:
- Opening bank accounts
- Filing W-9 forms
- Registering for state tax accounts
IRS System Updates
The IRS internal systems may take up to 2 weeks to fully reflect your new EIN. If a bank or other institution can’t verify your EIN:
- Wait 24-48 hours
- Try again with written confirmation
- Call the IRS business line if issues persist
Confirmation Letter
The IRS mails a CP 575 confirmation letter to new EIN recipients. This arrives:
- Within 4-6 weeks of EIN assignment
- To the address provided on application
Keep this letter permanently as official proof of your EIN assignment.
Timeline Planning for Business Launch
If you’re starting a business, plan your EIN timing:
Recommended Sequence
| Day | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Form LLC/Corporation |
| 1-2 | Apply for EIN online |
| 2-5 | Open business bank account |
| 5-10 | Register for state tax accounts |
Don’t Wait Until Last Minute
If you need an EIN by a specific date:
- Apply online at least 1 week before
- Apply by fax at least 2 weeks before
- Apply by mail at least 6 weeks before
This buffer accounts for potential issues or delays.
What If You Need an EIN Immediately?
During IRS Business Hours
Use the online application. You’ll have an EIN within 15 minutes.
After Hours or Weekends
You cannot get an EIN immediately outside IRS online system hours (Monday-Friday, 7 AM – 10 PM Eastern).
Options:
- Wait until Monday morning (or next business day)
- Fax Form SS-4 for Tuesday/Wednesday processing
True Emergencies
If you absolutely need an EIN outside business hours, you’ll need to wait. No expedited processing exists for emergencies.
Get Your EIN Without the Wait
Critical Compliance Services includes EIN application with our business formation packages. We apply for your EIN as soon as your entity is formed and deliver your confirmation.
What we provide:
- Same-day EIN application (business days)
- Digital confirmation delivery
- Secure document storage
- Compliance tracking
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an EIN on the same day I form my LLC?
Yes. If you form your LLC in the morning and apply for an EIN online the same day, you’ll have it within minutes.
Why does the IRS close the online EIN system overnight?
The IRS performs system maintenance during off-hours. They also require the system to be available during staffed hours for support.
What if the online system is down?
Try again later or use the fax method as backup. The online system occasionally experiences technical issues.
Can I pay to expedite my EIN?
No. The IRS doesn’t offer paid expedited processing. Online application is already instant, and you cannot pay to speed up fax or mail.
How do I prove I have an EIN before the confirmation letter arrives?
The online application provides an immediate confirmation page. Print or save this as proof until your official CP 575 arrives.