EIN For Virginia Business
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to your business for tax purposes. You can think of it as a social security number for your Virginia LLC or corporation. If you hire us to form your Virginia business, you can add EIN service to your order when checking out, and we’ll take care of everything for you. But if you’d rather file yourself, keep reading to learn how to obtain an EIN for your Virginia business.
What is an EIN?
An EIN (or Federal Employer Identification Number) is a nine-digit tax ID the IRS uses to identify your business—similar to how your social security number (SSN) identifies you, the human.
When you hire us to form your Virginia LLC or corporation, you can easily opt-in to have us get your EIN on your behalf. Our Virginia EIN service is just $50 (with an SSN) or $200 (without an SSN).
Do I need an EIN?
Probably. Most Virginia LLCs and corporations will need to obtain an EIN for tax purposes. For example, you’ll need an EIN to hire employees, operate as a corporation or partnership, or file alcohol, firearms, or tobacco taxes. You’ll also be required to get an EIN if any of the following are true:
- You file employment or excise taxes.
- You withhold income taxes (other than wages) paid to a non-resident alien.
- You have a Keogh plan.
- You are involved in any of the following:
- Trusts (except certain grantor-owned revocable trusts)
- IRAs
- Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Returns
- Estates
- Real estate mortgage investment conduits
- Non-profit organizations
- Farmers’ cooperatives
- Plan administrators
You’ll also need an EIN to file state-level taxes. For example, if you own an LLC and choose to maintain your default tax status, you’ll need to file a state income tax. Corporations that are taxed as C-corps are subject to a corporation income tax at the state level as well as the federal level.
In addition, you’ll likely need an EIN to open a business bank account, purchase real estate or other significant property, and obtain special permits or licenses. If you’d like us to get an EIN on behalf of your business, add “Tax ID” to your Virginia business formation order. It’s just $50 (with an SSN) or $200 (without an SSN).
How do I get an EIN?
To get an EIN, you must complete and submit Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) with the IRS. Applicants with a US residential or business address may apply online, by mail, or fax. International applicants must file by telephone, mail, or fax. Or you can easily add EIN service to your order when you hire us to form your Virginia LLC or corporation.
Online (US applicants only):
EIN Online Application
Mail or Fax:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Fax: 855-641-6935 (US) or 304-707-9471 (outside the US)
Telephone (International only):
267-941-1099
How long does it take to get an EIN?
You will receive an EIN immediately if you apply online or by telephone. Mailed submissions will take about four to five weeks. Faxed filings will be processed in about one week.
How much does it cost to apply for an EIN?
The IRS does not charge a fee for getting an EIN.
EIN FAQ
Does an EIN ever expire?
No. Once the IRS assigns an EIN to an entity, the IRS will never use that EIN again. However, there are circumstances in which you may need to get a new EIN. For example, if the structure of your business changes (i.e., you shift from an LLC to a corporation) or a new business is formed due to a merger, you would need to apply for a new EIN.
Can I use my registered agent’s address on the EIN form?
No. When you apply for an EIN, you must provide your business’s mailing address and (if different) street address. If you’ve designated someone to accept tax documents for your business, you may enter their information instead of your business address. A designated person is typically a corporate accountant, certified public accountant, or an attorney—not a registered agent.