An EIN is a nine-digit federal tax identification number the IRS assigns. At MyCorporation, we prepare and submit your EIN application, making sure your details match your formation records to avoid delays or rejections. Processing times depend on how you apply, and international founders have different steps. This process works for Texas LLCs, sole proprietors, corporations, partnerships, and some international founders, based on their needs.
What Is an EIN and Why Do Texas Businesses Need One?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a federal tax ID from the IRS. It is different from Texas state tax accounts and permits. MyCorporation recommends checking which uses apply to your business. These include:
- Employment Taxes: Handle employment taxes.
- Federal Tax Returns: File applicable returns.
- Business Banking: Meet bank requirements.
- Business Credit: Apply for business credit.
- Licenses and Permits: Complete applicable applications.
- Vendor Requests: Provide tax information when required.
The specific requirements depend on your business type, what you do, and the rules that apply to you.
When Do You Need to Apply for an EIN in Texas?
Federal rules decide when a Texas business needs an EIN. Here are some common situations:
- Corporations and Partnerships: These entities generally need EINs.
- Employees: Businesses generally need an EIN when they have employees.
- Federal Tax Obligations: Certain federal tax obligations require an EIN.
- Sole Proprietors: They may obtain an EIN voluntarily.
For single-member LLCs, whether you need an EIN depends on your tax status, if you have employees, and federal tax rules. Some banks may also ask for an EIN.
What You Need Before You Apply for an EIN in Texas
To get your EIN without issues, make sure your information is accurate and consistent. Mistakes in your name, business type, or responsible party can cause problems later. MyCorporation uses your formation records to make sure everything matches.
| Required Information | Notes |
| Legal business name | Correct legal name |
| Trade name | If applicable |
| Entity type | LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc. |
| Address | Follow Form SS-4 |
| Responsible party | Individual who generally owns or controls the entity |
| Responsible party TIN | SSN, ITIN or permitted entry |
| LLC details | Members and formation state |
| Reason for applying | Such as starting a business |
| Employment information | When applicable |
| Principal activity | Main business activity |
Form SS-4 allows responsible parties without an SSN or ITIN who are ineligible to obtain one to enter “foreign” or N/A on Line 7b.
What the EIN Application Covers
The EIN application uses information from these areas:
- Entity Details: Business structure, legal name and formation information.
- Responsible Party: The individual who owns or controls the entity.
- Business Details: Address, principal activity, and employee information.
- Result: Successful validation generally provides the EIN immediately once submitted.
Processing times depend on how you apply. MyCorporation will find the fastest option for your situation.
Skip the Form: Let MyCorporation Get Your EIN
We prepare your application from your formation details and submit it for you, so the information matches your records.
Button: Get Your EIN
How Can International Applicants Apply for an EIN?
International procedures apply if your main business, office, or agency is outside the U.S. or its territories. The process is different from the usual domestic steps.
International founders often find this process challenging because the online EIN application usually is not available to them. MyCorporation prepares Form SS-4 for international founders and submits it for you, using the method that works best for your situation.
Forming a Texas Business from Outside the U.S.?
MyCorporation can handle your formation and EIN together.
Button: Start Your Texas LLC
How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN in Texas?
Processing times vary by method:
| Method | Processing Time | Best For |
| Online | Generally immediate | Eligible applicants |
| International phone | During application when approved | Eligible international applicants |
| Fax | About 4 business days with return fax number | Form SS-4 applicants |
| Approximately 4 weeks | Mail applicants |
MyCorporation will check and use the fastest method for your situation before submitting your application.
What to Do After You Get Your EIN
Once you get your EIN, make sure to complete these important business tasks:
- Save the Confirmation: Keep the IRS notice with permanent records.
- Review Banking Needs: Use the EIN when your bank requires it.
- Check Sales Tax Requirements: Obtain a Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit when required.
- Complete Registrations: Address applicable tax, license, and permit registrations.
- Complete Tax Documents: Provide the appropriate taxpayer identification number on required tax documents.
The right taxpayer identification number depends on who you are and your federal tax classification.
EIN vs. Texas State Tax ID: Key Difference
An EIN is used for federal tax identification. A Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit is for state tax purposes if your business meets Texas requirements.
| EIN | Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit | |
| Issued By | IRS | Texas Comptroller |
| Government Fee | None | No permit fee; bond may apply |
| Used For | Federal tax identification | Sales and use tax |
| Who Needs It | Based on federal rules | Qualifying businesses |
| Filed With | IRS | Texas Comptroller |
Texas tax accounts depend on what your business does.
Common Mistakes When Applying for an EIN in Texas
These are the most common reasons for delays or rejections:
- Complete Formation First: Complete the applicable Texas formation process and use the approved legal name. MyCorporation can file your Texas Certificate of Formation for you.
- Select the Correct Entity: Choose the entity type matching your business.
- Check Responsible Party Details: Follow current Form SS-4 instructions.
- Match Your Records: Your name, business type, and responsible party must match your formation records. MyCorporation double-checks these details before submitting.
- Save the Confirmation: Keep the IRS confirmation securely.
Texas LLCs are formed by filing a Certificate of Formation.
Conclusion
To get an EIN for your Texas business, your details must match your formation records, and the best way to apply depends on your business type and situation. MyCorporation prepares your application, checks your details, submits it for you, and sends you confirmation as part of forming your business.
FAQs
- Is getting an EIN in Texas free? There is no government fee to obtain an EIN. MyCorporation’s service fee covers preparing your application, matching it to your formation records, and submitting it on your behalf.
- Do I need an EIN before or after forming my LLC in Texas? Form the Texas LLC through a Certificate of Formation first, then apply using its approved legal name and tax details. MyCorporation can file your Texas LLC and get your EIN in one order.
- Can I apply for an EIN in Texas without an SSN? Applicants without an SSN or ITIN who are ineligible to obtain one can follow the applicable Form SS-4 procedures. MyCorporation prepares the Form SS-4 for you.
- What does MyCorporation check before submitting my EIN Application? We cross-check your legal name, entity type, responsible party, and formation details against your formation records before submission to reduce the chance of delays or rejection.
- Can MyCorporation get my EIN for me? Yes. We prepare your application from your business details and submit it to the IRS on your behalf.