How to Get an EIN Number in Arizona (Free & Fast)
How to Get an EIN Number in Arizona (Free & Fast)
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your business's federal tax ID. In Arizona, and every other state, you apply for it directly through the IRS, not the state. It's free, takes about 10 minutes, and you get it instantly online.
Here's everything you need to know.
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What Is an EIN and Why Do You Need One?
An EIN is a 9-digit number (format: XX-XXXXXXX) issued by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Think of it as a Social Security Number for your business.
You need an EIN to:
- Open a business bank account (most banks require it)
- Hire employees
- File business tax returns
- Apply for business licenses and permits in Arizona
- Apply for a business credit card
- Set up payroll
Even if you have no employees, getting an EIN is good practice, it lets you avoid putting your personal Social Security Number on business applications and forms.
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Who Needs an EIN in Arizona?
| Business Type | EIN Required? |
|---|---|
| LLC (single-member, no employees) | Recommended but not required |
| LLC (multi-member) | Yes |
| LLC with employees | Yes |
| Corporation | Yes |
| Sole proprietor with employees | Yes |
| Sole proprietor, no employees | No (can use SSN), but recommended |
Even if technically not required, we recommend every Arizona business owner get an EIN before opening a bank account or accepting client payments.
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How to Apply for an EIN in Arizona (Step by Step)
All EIN applications go through the IRS, not the Arizona Corporation Commission or any state agency.
Online (Fastest, Instant)
1. Go to [IRS.gov/EIN](https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online)
2. Click "Apply Online Now"
3. Select your entity type (LLC, Sole Proprietor, Corporation, etc.)
4. Answer questions about your business
5. Enter your personal information (SSN required for the responsible party)
6. Submit, you'll receive your EIN immediately on screen and via email
Available: Monday–Friday, 7am–10pm Eastern Time
Cost: Free
Time: About 10 minutes
By Fax (4 Business Days)
Download Form SS-4, fill it out, and fax to: (855) 641-6935
You'll receive your EIN by fax within 4 business days.
By Mail (4–5 Weeks)
Mail completed Form SS-4 to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
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What You'll Need to Apply
- Your SSN or ITIN (the "responsible party" must have one)
- Legal business name (exactly as filed with the Arizona Corporation Commission if you have an LLC)
- Business address (Arizona address)
- Type of business entity (LLC, Corporation, Sole Proprietor, etc.)
- Reason for applying (started a new business, hired employees, etc.)
- Business start date
- Principal business activity (what your business does)
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Arizona-Specific Notes
Your EIN is separate from your Arizona tax ID. Once you have your federal EIN, you'll also need to register with the Arizona Department of Revenue if you:
- Sell taxable goods or services (requires a TPT license, Arizona's sales tax permit)
- Have employees (requires Arizona withholding registration)
Register at AZTaxes.govAZTaxes.govhttps://aztaxes.gov, this is free.
The EIN is permanent. Once issued, your EIN doesn't expire and doesn't need to be renewed.
Beware of EIN filing services. You'll see websites charging $75–$300 to "get your EIN." These are unnecessary. The IRS issues EINs for free directly at IRS.gov. Never pay for an EIN.
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After You Get Your EIN
1. Save the confirmation letter (IRS CP 575 notice), you'll need this to open your bank account
2. Open a business bank account using your EIN and Arizona LLC formation documents
3. Register for Arizona TPT if you sell taxable goods or services
4. Add your EIN to your W-9 for any clients who need it for contractor payments
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