As a business owner, you know how important it is to keep track of your company’s Employer Identification Number (EIN). This unique identifier is used by the IRS to keep track of your business for tax purposes. However, if you’re new to the world of business or simply don’t remember when you last used your EIN, you might be wondering how to locate it.
Why Your Company Needs an EIN
Before we dive into the steps for finding your company’s EIN, it’s worth taking a moment to understand why this unique identifier is so important. An EIN serves as your business’s official tax identification number and is used by the IRS to keep track of your company’s financial transactions.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for years, it’s essential to keep track of your EIN. This identifier is required for many business activities, including opening a bank account, applying for loans, and even renting office space.
Step 1: Check Your Business Registration Documents
The first step in finding your company’s EIN is to check your business registration documents. These documents, which may include your Articles of Incorporation or Limited Liability Company (LLC) formation paperwork, should include your company’s EIN.
If you don’t have access to these documents, you can try contacting the state agency where you registered your business. They may be able to provide you with a copy of your registration documents or help you locate your EIN in their records.
Step 2: Check Your Tax Returns
Another way to find your company’s EIN is to check your tax returns. If you’ve filed tax returns for your business, they should include your company’s EIN. You can try looking through old tax returns or contacting your tax professional for assistance.
If you don’t have access to your tax returns, you may be able to find your EIN by contacting the IRS. They can provide you with a copy of your tax returns or help you locate your EIN in their records.
Step 3: Contact Your Bank
If you’re still having trouble finding your company’s EIN, you can try contacting your bank. Many banks require businesses to provide their EIN when opening a business account. If you have an account with your bank, they may be able to provide you with your company’s EIN.
Alternatively, if you don’t have an account with your bank but you know that your business has been operating for some time, they may still have records of your EIN on file.
Step 4: Check Your Business Licenses and Permits
If you’re still having trouble finding your company’s EIN, you can try checking your business licenses and permits. These documents may include your company’s EIN or provide information about where to find it.
For example, if you have a professional license or permit, such as a medical license, your state agency may have records of your EIN on file. You can try contacting them for assistance.
Step 5: Hire a Professional
If all else fails and you still can’t find your company’s EIN, it may be time to hire a professional. A business attorney or accountant can help you locate your EIN and provide guidance on how to keep track of this important piece of information moving forward.
FAQs: Finding Your Company’s EIN
Q: I can’t find my company’s EIN anywhere, what should I do?
A: If you’re having trouble finding your company’s EIN, try contacting the state agency where you registered your business or the IRS for assistance. You may also want to consider hiring a professional, such as a business attorney or accountant, to help you locate your EIN.
