Other Business Types
Sole proprietors, corporations, partnerships, nonprofits and household employers.
Last updated November 5, 2026
EIN for a Sole Proprietor: Why Most Get One, and When It Becomes Mandatory
Most sole proprietors get an EIN to keep their SSN off W-9s, to open a business account, and to be ready to hire. It becomes mandatory with the first employee. What the SS-4 asks a sole proprietor.
EIN for a Corporation or S-Corp
A corporation needs an EIN from the day it is chartered. There is no separate S-corp EIN: the election rides on the number you already have. What the SS-4 asks and who signs.
EIN for a Partnership or Multi-Member LLC
Mandatory, because a partnership files Form 1065 and issues K-1s. When to apply, which partner is the responsible party, and how the SS-4 differs from a single-owner application.
EIN for a Nonprofit: Get the Number Before the 501(c)(3)
A nonprofit needs an EIN long before tax-exempt status, and the exemption application cannot be filed without it. The entity type and the responsible party rules that trip up volunteer boards.
Can You Get an EIN for a DBA?
A DBA is a name, not an entity, so the EIN belongs to whoever is behind it. What that means for a sole proprietor and for an LLC with several trade names, and the mistake that leaves a DBA with two numbers.
EIN for a Household Employer: Nanny, Caregiver, Housekeeper
Paying a nanny or in-home caregiver makes you a household employer. You need an EIN in your own name for Schedule H, the W-2, and state unemployment registration. What goes on the SS-4.
Skip the paperwork. Our specialists prepare and file your EIN application and get your EIN to you, typically within 2 to 4 business days (about 11 if it has to go by fax).
Start Now →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, typically within 2 to 4 business days, or about 11 when the IRS requires the application by fax. One flat $197 service fee. No upsells, no subscriptions.
- ✓ Prepared and filed by specialists
- ✓ Error 101 and rejection handling included
- ✓ Data encrypted (AES-256)
- ✓ Order tracking and email updates
You can also apply for an EIN directly with the IRS at irs.gov at no cost.