Why Does the IRS Say It Can't Provide Me an EIN?
Last updated November 10, 2026 · Written by the EIN Registration filing team
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Start Now →What each reference number means
The IRS does not publish a key to these numbers. These meanings are what each number has meant on the applications we file.
| Number | What it means |
|---|---|
| 101 | Name conflict. The business name, or something close to it, already exists in IRS records, often in another state. |
| 102 | The responsible party's SSN or ITIN does not match the name the IRS has for it. |
| 103 | Same family as 102: an existing EIN and entity name entered on the form do not match IRS records. |
| 104 | The third-party designee's address or phone number is the same as the applicant's. |
| 105 | Too many attempts. The tool has locked the responsible party out for the day. |
| 106 | A single-member LLC with employees is applying without the owner's existing EIN on record. |
| 107 | The single-member LLC already has more than one EIN on file. |
| 109 | Technical failure on the IRS side, usually at final submission. |
| 110 | Technical failure on the IRS side, often after a session times out. |
| 112 | Technical failure on the IRS side, commonly when the tool is overloaded. |
| 113 | Technical failure on the IRS side. |
| 114 | An EIN was already issued to this responsible party today. |
| 115 | Social Security records show the responsible party as deceased. |
What to do next
- Write the number down. The IRS does not keep what you typed, so the number is all you carry forward.
- Do not keep retrying. Repeated attempts lead to a lockout for the day. See whether you can apply again.
- For 101, go to fax. A name conflict is never resolved online. See what to do after reference number 101.
What the IRS manual says
The IRS's own procedures for EIN applications are in Internal Revenue Manual section 21.7.13. These passages are quoted word for word.
“We are unable to provide you with an EIN. We apologize for the inconvenience, but based on the information provided we are unable to provide you with an EIN through this online assistant.”
IRM 21.7.13.3.4.1, Modernized Internet EIN (10-01-2026)
“The online message does not provide a definition of the three-digit reference number (reject code).”
IRM 21.7.13.3.4.1, Modernized Internet EIN (10-01-2026)
“Reference numbers 101 or 115 are directed to a CSR for assistance. All other reference numbers are routed to an automated message which provides instructions to correct invalid information and resubmit the application or submit Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number, by mail or fax.”
IRM 21.7.13.3.4.1, Modernized Internet EIN (10-01-2026)
“Taxpayers may believe IRS employees have access to the information that was previously input in the online application. Advise taxpayer IRS does not save this information”
IRM 21.7.13.3.4.1, Modernized Internet EIN (10-01-2026)
The manual does not publish what each reference number means: the tables that list them are withheld from the public copy. The meanings on this page are what each number has meant on the applications we file. Source: IRM 21.7.13, Assigning Employer Identification Numbers, read November 10, 2026.
Quick answers
Why is the IRS website saying it can't provide me an EIN?
The online application checks what you enter while you wait, and it refuses when a check fails. The message is the same for every cause. The three-digit reference number under it is the only clue to which check failed.
Does the message mean my EIN application was denied?
No. It means the online application will not issue the number in that session. No EIN was assigned, nothing was filed, and you can still get one, by fixing the entry and applying again or by sending Form SS-4 by fax or mail.
Should I call the number in the message?
For reference numbers 101 and 115 the IRS routes the call to a person. For every other number the call reaches a recorded message that tells you to correct the information and apply again, or to send Form SS-4 by mail or fax.
Get Your EIN the Easy Way
Answer a few questions in about 5 minutes. Our specialists prepare your IRS Form SS-4, file it, personally handle any rejection or name conflict along the way, and get your EIN to you. We file within 30 minutes of your order during IRS hours, and your EIN typically arrives the same day.
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Related guides
- IRS EIN Reference Numbers 101 to 115, Explained Every code the IRS online application can return, what it means in practice, and the fix. Which ones are your answers, which are the IRS, and which two you must not retry.
- IRS Error 101 (EIN Reference Number 101): How to Fix It Error 101 is a business name conflict the online application cannot resolve. What it means and the two ways past it.
- Why Won't the IRS Let Me Apply for an EIN Online? Six reasons the online application turns people away: closed, no SSN or ITIN, no U.S. address, a name conflict, a lockout, or one EIN a day.
- Can I Apply for an EIN Again After an Error? It depends on the reference number: which allow one more try, which mean stop for the day, and which go to fax.
- Can Someone Else File My EIN After an IRS Error? Yes, as your third party designee on Form SS-4, by fax when the online application refuses. Who can do it and what they need.
- How to Apply for an EIN by Fax: SS-4 Fax Numbers and What Comes Back 855-641-6935 for the 50 states and DC, two other numbers for everyone else. What to send, how long the IRS takes, the cover sheet it faxes back, the designee signature rule, and what to do when nothing comes back.
Sources
You can also apply for an EIN directly with the IRS at irs.gov at no cost.