How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN in 2025?

If you’re planning to open a business in the United States, you’re probably wondering how long it will take to obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). The EIN is a tax identification number necessary to meet tax obligations in the United States and perform various business activities, such as opening a bank account or registering on digital platforms.

In this article, we’ll provide you with all the relevant information about how long the IRS takes to send the EIN in 2025. We’ll explore the factors that influence the timeline, how to apply for an EIN, possible delays, and what to do if you don’t receive the EIN within the estimated timeframe.

What is an EIN and What is it Used For?

The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a 9-digit tax identification number assigned to businesses in the United States. This number is essential for meeting tax obligations and conducting various business activities. Some of the main functions of the EIN are:

• Opening a business bank account (Benefits of opening a Mercury Bank account in 2025)
• Registering on digital platforms such as payment gateways, marketplaces, and stock brokers
• Filing annual tax returns with the IRS (What taxes does an LLC pay in the United States?)

How to Apply for an EIN from the IRS?

To apply for an EIN from the IRS, it’s necessary to designate a Responsible Party who has the authority to make decisions about the company’s assets. Usually, the Responsible Party is one of the business owners, but it can also be someone else who meets certain conditions.

Application options based on the type of Responsible Party:

If the Responsible Party has an individual U.S. tax identification number, such as a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), it’s possible to obtain the EIN immediately through the IRS website or by phone. However, if the Responsible Party doesn’t have any of these tax identification numbers, the most common option is to apply for the EIN by fax.

How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN by Fax?

Applying for an EIN by fax is the most common option for businesses with foreign owners. The process involves sending Form SS-4 to the IRS via fax, which is manually processed by IRS workers.

Updated timelines for 2025:

Based on our updated experience, EIN processing times are:

• 5 to 7 business days: Average time for the IRS to process the application and issue the EIN by fax
• 15 additional days: To receive the official confirmation letter CP 575C by mail

It’s important to note that these are average times and may vary depending on the IRS’s workload, especially during peak demand seasons such as the beginning of the fiscal year.

Can the EIN Application Process Be Expedited?

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to expedite the EIN application process for businesses whose Responsible Party doesn’t have an SSN or ITIN. The IRS will take the necessary time to process the application and assign the EIN. It’s not recommended to:

• Send multiple faxes
• Call the IRS repeatedly
• Submit duplicate applications

These actions won’t speed up the process and could cause confusion or additional delays.

What to Do If You Don’t Receive the EIN Within the Estimated Timeframe?

If you don’t receive the EIN within the estimated timeframe, it’s important to take steps to ensure there are no errors in the application and that the IRS has received the application correctly.

Steps to follow:

1. Wait an additional week in case of normal processing delays
2. Verify the contact information provided in the application
3. If after 15 business days you don’t receive a response, consider resending Form SS-4

It’s important to note that these situations are exceptional and usually represent less than 2% of cases. In most cases, the IRS responds and sends the EIN within the estimated timeframe.

How Does ExpressFormations Ensure Error-Free EIN Applications?

At ExpressFormations, we’re committed to ensuring that the EIN application is completed correctly and without errors. We take various measures to ensure the process is carried out properly:

Our quality control measures:

• Complete Form SS-4 accurately and without errors
• Provide a U.S. address to receive IRS correspondence in a timely manner
• Send the form by fax following all IRS guidelines
• Attach the company’s formation documents when sending the fax
• Confirm successful submission of the fax and provide proof to the client
• Proactive follow-up on the application status

These measures allow us to minimize the possibility of errors in the application and ensure the process is carried out properly.

Important Recommendations

To ensure a smooth process:

1. Plan ahead: Consider processing times when planning your business opening
2. Prepare all documentation: Make sure you have all necessary documents before starting the application
3. Verify information: Carefully review all data before submitting the application
4. Keep records: Save copies of all documents sent and received

Conclusion

Obtaining an EIN is a fundamental step in the process of establishing a business in the United States. With the updated timelines for 2025, you can expect to receive your EIN by fax in 5 to 7 business days, and the CP 575C confirmation letter in approximately 15 additional days by postal mail.

Take the leap toward new global opportunities. At ExpressFormations, we offer expert advice for forming LLCs in the U.S. Contact us now, free of charge, and we’ll provide guidance! Start expanding your business beyond borders.

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This article provides general information about EIN processing times. Timelines may vary depending on individual circumstances and IRS workload. For more specific information about your situation, consult with a qualified professional.