How to Get an EIN for Your LLC in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you formed an LLC, your next move is getting an EIN. An EIN is your business tax ID. You will use it to open a bank account, file taxes, hire team members, and set up payment processors. You can get an EIN yourself with the IRS or have Northwest handle it for you. This guide shows both paths in simple steps, with a focus on using Northwest to keep its hands off.

 

What is an EIN and why Do You need it

• EIN stands for Employer Identification Number.
• It is like a Social Security Number for your business.
• Banks, payment processors, and states ask for it.
• You need it for payroll, 1099s, and most tax filings.

 

Two ways to get an EIN

1. Do it yourself with the IRS.

Good if you want to apply online and you have a U.S. SSN or ITIN.

2. Use Northwest to file for you.

Good if you want a done-for-you setup, you are outside the U.S., you do not have an SSN/ITIN, or you just want zero hassle.

This tutorial covers both, starting with the Northwest route.

 

What you need before you apply

• Your LLC has been formed and approved by the state.
• The legal name of the LLC, exactly as shown on your state approval.
• The principal business address.
• The responsible party info. This is the person who controls the LLC.
• Business start date and a short business description.
• Member count and management style (member-managed or manager-managed).

Tip: Use the same address format on all documents to avoid mismatches.

 

How to get an EIN with Northwest Registered Agent (hands-off)

Step 1: Create or sign in to your Northwest account

• Choose EIN service.
• Select the LLC that needs the EIN. If they formed your LLC, it will be listed.

 

Step 2: Enter LLC details

• Legal name and formation state.
• Formation approval date.
• Principal business address.
• Business activity and short description.

 

Step 3: Add the responsible party

• Full name and title.
• SSN or ITIN if available. If not, mark as foreign.
• Contact phone and email.

Tip: Many non-U.S. owners do not have an SSN. Northwest can still file by fax or mail.

 

Step 4: Confirm member info and tax classification

• Single-member LLC or multi-member LLC.
• Default tax treatment:
  • A single-member LLC is usually taxed as a disregarded entity.
  • A multi-member LLC is usually taxed as a partnership.
• Planning an S Corp election later is fine. You can file that after you get the EIN.

 

Step 5: Sign the SS-4 authorization

• Northwest acts as your third-party designee.
• You review and e-sign the info so they can submit it to the IRS.

 

Step 6: Northwest files with the IRS

• If you have an SSN or ITIN, filing may be electronic.
• If you do not, filing is usually by fax or mail.
• You wait while they process. No IRS calls needed on your end.

 

Step 7: Receive your EIN confirmation

• You get your EIN and a confirmation letter.
• Save a copy in your records.
• Move on to banking and tax registrations.

 

How to get an EIN yourself with the IRS

Step 1: Gather info

• LLC legal name and address.
• Responsible party name and SSN/ITIN.
• Member count and management style.
• Business activity description and start date.

Step 2: Apply

• Use the IRS online EIN application if you have an SSN/ITIN and a U.S. address.
• If you do not have an SSN/ITIN, prepare Form SS-4 and fax or mail it to the IRS.

Step 3: Save your EIN letter

• Download or keep the IRS notice in a safe place.
• You will need it for banking and payroll.

 

What to do right after you get your EIN

1. Open a business bank account

Bring your state approval, Operating Agreement, and the EIN letter.

2. Set up payment processing

Stripe, PayPal, or your checkout tool will ask for the EIN.

3. Register for state taxes if needed

Sales tax, employer tax, or state ID numbers depend on your location and model.

4. Set up bookkeeping

Use simple software and connect your bank feed on day one.

5. Plan your tax path

Ask your CPA about deductions and, if income is rising, whether an S Corp election later makes sense.

 

Common mistakes to avoid

• Name mismatch: The IRS record must match your state approval exactly.
• Wrong responsible party: List a real person who controls the LLC, not the LLC name.
• Using a trade name: Apply with the legal name, not the DBA.
• Picking the wrong tax type: If you are unsure, use the default and talk to a CPA later.
• Losing the EIN letter: Store a digital and paper copy.

 

Single-member vs multi-member tips

Single-member LLC

• The default tax is passed through to your personal return.
• You can still hire contractors or employees later.
• Consider an S Corp election only when profit supports payroll.

Multi-member LLC

• The default tax is a partnership.
• Keep a clear Operating Agreement for ownership and profit splits.
• Track capital contributions and distributions from day one.

 

Non-U.S. owner tips

• You can get an EIN without an SSN/ITIN.
• Expect fax or mail processing.
• Use a reliable U.S. mailing address for IRS notices.
• Keep copies of your formation approval and member info ready.

 

Quick checklist

• LLC approved by the state.
• Responsible party chosen.
• Address and business description ready.
• Apply with Northwest or the IRS.
• Save the EIN letter.
• Open banking and link bookkeeping.
• Register for any state tax IDs.
• Keep records consistent across all systems.

 

Final Thoughts

Getting an EIN is a short task that unlocks everything else. If you want a hands-off route, let Northwest file it for you and send the confirmation. If you prefer DIY, apply with the IRS and keep your records tidy. Once the EIN is in place, open your bank account, set up payments, and keep building.