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The Daily Insight

Is the IRS online EIN website down?

Author

John Thompson

Published Mar 27, 2026

IRS website is down. IRS has announced, on its EIN online application website, that its online EIN application service will be closed from Dec. 23 at approximately 5 pm Eastern Time until approximately 7 a.m. Eastern Time on Monday, Jan. 4, 2021.

Will the IRS issue you an EIN number even if you don’t need it for tax purposes?

A federal employer identification number, or EIN, is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to businesses for tax filing and reporting purposes. However, most sole proprietors don’t need to obtain an EIN and can use their Social Security numbers instead.

Why is EIN online not working?

One of the most common reasons you might find that you can’t get EIN online is that your application comes back with a Reference 101 error. This often occurs because you have a conflict with your name on the application. Entity names must be unique.

How is the Ein number used by the IRS?

A federal EIN number is a nine digit number issued by the IRS. The federal EIN number is used by the IRS to identify the tax accounts of employers. A federal tax identification number is used by the IRS to identify business entities within the United States.

What happens if I don’t get an EIN number?

You will not be able to file taxes for your company if you do not have an EIN number for your business. There are a few exceptions to this rule, including sole proprietors, and limited liability companies without employees.

How to get an EIN for your business?

Hours of Operation 1 Determine Your Eligibility You may apply for an EIN online if your principal business is located in the United States or U.S. Territories. 2 Understand the Online Application You must complete this application in one session, as you will not be able to save and return at a later time. 3 Submit Your Application

Do you need IRS SS4 to apply for Ein?

The IRS SS4 application online can also be utilized as a method for applying for a employer identification number / EIN. An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number (FEIN), and is used to identify a business entity.