File for EIN by Mail or Fax

• 1). Download Form SS-4 from the IRS website (see Resources).
  
  
• 2). Complete Form SS-4. The form requires your full name, business name (if different) and address. If you have no formal business setup, check "Sole Proprietorship" and enter your current social security number or ITIN. Check "Banking" as the purpose for applying for the EIN. Answer any other applicable questions and sign and date the form.
  
  
• 3). Mail or fax the form to the IRS. If sending by mail, the application can take about four weeks to process. Faxed applications will be fulfilled within four days. (See Resources for mailing address and fax number).
  
  

File for EIN Online

• 1). Go to the IRS EIN application page (see Resources) and click on the link to "Apply Online Now." The online application is available: Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. EST, Saturday from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST and Sunday from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. EST.
  
  
• 2). Complete the online application. You will need to answer several questions on a series of screens. When you have selected or entered an answer, press the "Continue" button to go to the next screen. Select "Sole Proprietor" as the business structure when prompted. Select "Banking purposes" in the "Why is the Sole Proprietor Requesting an EIN?" screen. Enter your first and last name, social security number or ITIN, address and any additional information.
  
  
• 3). Submit the online application. Your EIN will be displayed immediately after you submit the application.
  
  

File for EIN by Phone

• 1). Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933. The line is available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time.
  
  
• 2). Request an EIN for banking purposes when prompted by the representative.
  
  
• 3). Submit all other requested information. The representative will ask for your name, address and social security number. When asked for your business type, you can state your structure is a sole proprietorship. The representative will immediately give you your new EIN over the phone.