Guide

How to Get a Tax ID Number (2026) Guide

Get a Tax ID: businesses apply for EIN (Form SS-4), individuals get SSN (Form SS-5) or ITIN (Form W-7). Complete guide to all US tax identification numbers.

To get a Tax ID number: businesses apply for an EIN using Form SS-4, US citizens get an SSN using Form SS-5, and non-residents get an ITIN using Form W-7. The type of Tax ID you need depends on whether you are an individual or business and whether you are a US citizen or non-resident.

By Type

How to Get Each Tax ID

| Tax ID | Form | Method | Speed | |--------|------|--------|-------| | EIN | SS-4 | Online/fax/phone | Instant-7 days | | SSN | SS-5 | Social Security office | 2-4 weeks | | ITIN | W-7 | Mail/CAA | 7-11 weeks | | PTIN | Online | irs.gov/ptin | Instant |

Which One

Which Tax ID Do You Need?

| You Are | You Need | |---------|----------| | US citizen starting a business | SSN (already have) + EIN | | Non-resident with US LLC | EIN + possibly ITIN | | Non-resident with US income | ITIN | | Tax preparer | PTIN | | Employer hiring workers | EIN |

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Quick Links

Apply for your EIN — $49

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a tax ID number?

Depends on type: EIN via Form SS-4, SSN via Form SS-5, ITIN via Form W-7. See each guide for details.

What is the easiest tax ID to get?

An EIN is fastest — instant online or 4-7 days by fax. SSN takes 2-4 weeks. ITIN takes 7-11 weeks.

Do I need a tax ID for my business?

Yes. All US business entities need an EIN. Apply at irs.gov or through ein.so ($49).

Is getting a tax ID free?

EIN and ITIN are free from the IRS. SSN is free. PTIN costs $19.75/year.

Can non-residents get a US tax ID?

Yes. Non-residents get an EIN (business) or ITIN (personal). No SSN needed.

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