An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your Texas LLC’s federal tax identification number—like a Social Security Number for your business. The IRS issues EINs for free, and you can get yours in about 15 minutes online. Here’s exactly how to apply.
What Is an EIN?
An EIN is a nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes.
Format: XX-XXXXXXX (example: 12-3456789)
Also called:
- Federal Tax ID Number
- Federal Employer Identification Number
- FEIN
Does Your Texas LLC Need an EIN?
EIN Required If:
- Your LLC has employees
- Your LLC has multiple members (partnership taxation)
- Your LLC files employment, excise, or alcohol/tobacco/firearms returns
- Your LLC withholds taxes on income paid to non-resident aliens
EIN Recommended If:
- You want to open a business bank account (most banks require it)
- You prefer not to use your SSN on business documents
- You plan to build business credit
- You work with vendors who require a tax ID
Bottom Line
Even single-member LLCs without employees should get an EIN. It’s free, takes minutes, and keeps your Social Security Number private.
How to Get an EIN: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Form Your LLC First
The IRS requires your LLC to be legally formed before issuing an EIN. Complete your Texas Certificate of Formation and receive approval before applying.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
You’ll need:
- LLC legal name: Exactly as filed with Texas
- LLC address: Principal place of business
- Responsible party: Name and SSN/ITIN of a person who controls the LLC
- Formation date: When Texas approved your Certificate of Formation
- Number of members: Single-member or multi-member
- Reason for applying: Starting a new business, hiring employees, etc.
Step 3: Apply Online (Fastest Method)
Go to: IRS EIN Online Application
Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time
Process:
- Click “Apply Online Now”
- Select “Limited Liability Company” as entity type
- Confirm you’re the responsible party (or authorized representative)
- Enter LLC information
- Enter responsible party information
- Confirm all information
- Receive EIN immediately
- Download and save confirmation letter
Time required: 10-15 minutes
Step 4: Save Your Confirmation
After receiving your EIN:
- Download the confirmation letter (CP 575)
- Save a copy to your business records
- Store securely—you’ll need this for banking
Alternative Application Methods
By Fax
Download Form SS-4, complete it, and fax to:
- Within U.S.: (855) 641-6935
Processing time: 4 business days
By Mail
Mail completed Form SS-4 to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Processing time: 4-5 weeks
Why Apply Online?
| Method | Time to Receive EIN |
|---|---|
| Online | Immediate |
| Fax | 4 business days |
| 4-5 weeks |
Unless you cannot apply online, use the online application.
The Responsible Party
The IRS requires a “responsible party” for every EIN application.
Who Is the Responsible Party?
The responsible party is an individual who controls, manages, or directs the LLC and its funds. For most Texas LLCs:
- Single-member LLC: The sole owner
- Multi-member LLC: A managing member or manager
- Manager-managed LLC: The designated manager
Requirements
The responsible party must:
- Be an individual (not another business)
- Have a valid SSN or ITIN
- Have authority over the LLC’s finances
Why It Matters
The IRS uses the responsible party to:
- Track who controls the entity
- Send tax correspondence
- Verify identity
Common EIN Application Questions
Can I apply without an SSN?
No. The responsible party must have an SSN or ITIN. International applicants without an SSN can apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4 with their foreign identification.
Can multiple people apply?
Only one responsible party applies. That person represents the LLC in the application.
Do I need a new EIN if I add members?
No. Adding members doesn’t require a new EIN. The LLC keeps its existing number.
What if I already had a sole proprietorship?
If you were a sole proprietor and formed an LLC, you need a new EIN for the LLC—even if it’s a single-member LLC.
Can I apply before my LLC is formed?
No. The IRS requires your LLC to legally exist before issuing an EIN. Form your Texas LLC first, then apply.
Is there a cost?
No. The IRS provides EINs for free. Never pay a third party for EIN application—it’s a free government service.
After You Receive Your EIN
Immediate Steps
- Save the confirmation letter: This is your official record
- Open a business bank account: Most banks require EIN
- Update business records: Add EIN to your LLC files
Ongoing Use
You’ll use your EIN for:
- Tax returns (federal and Texas franchise tax)
- Business bank accounts
- Contracts and vendor applications
- Hiring employees
- Credit applications
EIN vs. Texas Taxpayer Number
Your EIN is federal. Texas also issues a Taxpayer Number for state taxes.
| Number | Issued By | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| EIN | IRS | Federal taxes, banking |
| Texas Taxpayer ID | Texas Comptroller | State franchise tax |
When you file your first Texas Franchise Tax report, you’ll receive a Texas Taxpayer Number.
Can You Change Your EIN?
Generally, no. However, you need a new EIN if:
- The LLC becomes a corporation
- A sole proprietorship incorporates or forms an LLC
- A partnership becomes a sole proprietorship
- A new partnership is formed
Adding or removing members doesn’t require a new EIN.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Paying for EIN Application
The IRS provides EINs for free. Never pay a service to “get your EIN”—apply directly.
2. Applying Before LLC Formation
Wait until your Certificate of Formation is approved before applying for an EIN.
3. Wrong Legal Name
Enter your LLC name exactly as registered with Texas, including “LLC” designation.
4. Losing the Confirmation Letter
The IRS doesn’t automatically replace lost EIN confirmation letters. Save it securely.
5. Using Personal SSN Instead
Once you have an EIN, use it (not your SSN) for business purposes.
EIN Application Checklist
Before applying, confirm you have:
- [ ] Texas LLC legally formed (Certificate of Formation approved)
- [ ] LLC’s exact legal name
- [ ] LLC’s physical address
- [ ] Formation date
- [ ] Responsible party’s name and SSN
- [ ] Number of members
- [ ] Internet access (for online application)
Get Your Texas LLC and EIN Today
Your EIN is essential for banking, taxes, and professional operations. With your LLC formed and EIN obtained, you’re ready to do business properly.
IncCraft includes EIN application with every Texas LLC formation package. We file your Certificate of Formation and obtain your EIN—so you can focus on building your business.
Start your Texas LLC with IncCraft today.