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Do I Need an EIN for My LLC?
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Editor's note: This post was originally published on February 23, 2022, and has been updated for accuracy, comprehensiveness, and freshness on March 31, 2026.
If you’re starting or running an LLC, you’ve probably heard the term “EIN” come up. An Employer Identification Number is a nine-digit number assigned by the IRS that functions like a Social Security number for your business. But not every LLC is required to have one. Here’s what you need to know.
What is an EIN?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number), also called a Federal Tax Identification Number, is used by the IRS to identify a business entity. It’s required for many business tax filings and is used when hiring employees, opening a business bank account, applying for business licenses, and filing certain tax returns.
Does my LLC need an EIN?
Whether your LLC needs an EIN depends on how it’s structured and what it does:
You need an EIN if your LLC:
- Has employees (or plans to hire any)
- Is a multi-member LLC (more than one owner)
- Files excise taxes, employment taxes, or certain other business taxes
- Is required to file tax returns as a corporation or partnership
- Opens a business bank account (most banks require one)
- Applies for business licenses or permits that require a tax ID
You may not need an EIN if your LLC:
- Is a single-member LLC with no employees
- Is treated as a disregarded entity for tax purposes (income reported on your personal return)
That said, even if you’re not legally required to get an EIN, it’s generally a good idea to have one. It protects your Social Security number from being shared with clients, vendors, and banks, and it makes business banking and tax filing more straightforward.
How to get an EIN for your LLC
Applying for an EIN is free and straightforward. The fastest method is to apply online through the IRS website at irs.gov. The online application is available for businesses with a principal place of business in the United States or U.S. territories.
You can also apply by fax or mail using IRS Form SS-4, though processing times are significantly longer.
Important things to know about your EIN
- An EIN is permanent—it stays with your LLC even if you change the business name or address
- If you close your LLC, you should notify the IRS, but the EIN is not reused
- If your LLC changes its ownership structure—for example, going from a single-member to a multi-member LLC—you may need a new EIN
How LegalShield can help
Setting up an LLC involves more than just filing paperwork. A LegalShield® Small Business Plan gives you access to a provider law firm that can help you understand your tax obligations, review your operating agreement, answer questions about business structure, and support you as your business grows.
Explore LegalShield Business Plans to find the right coverage for your LLC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not every LLC needs an EIN, but most do. Single-member LLCs with no employees can use the owner's Social Security number for tax purposes. However, if your LLC has multiple members, has employees, or is taxed as a corporation or partnership, you're required to have one.
You can use either, but an EIN is the safer option. Using your SSN for business taxes and banking means your SSN shows up on invoices, contracts, and government forms.This increases your risk of identity theft. An EIN gives you the exact same tax ID functionality without exposing your personal information.
No. Forming your LLC and getting an EIN are two different steps. You'll need to form your LLC with your state first. Then, you apply for an EIN through the IRS. The EIN application is free, and you can get your number in minutes through the IRS website.
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