How to Get an SS-4 Form

Getting an SS-4 form is one of the first steps in setting up your business properly. This form is used to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Without it, many essential business tasks become difficult or impossible.

If you’re starting a new business, hiring employees, or opening a business bank account, you’ll need an EIN. That’s where Form SS-4 comes in.

Now you might be wondering, “How to get an SS-4 Form?” While the process is straightforward, knowing where to apply and how to fill it out correctly can save you time and avoid delays.

doola simplifies this process easier for founders. From helping you form your business to handling EIN applications, compliance, and accounting, we take care of the paperwork so you can focus on building your business.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to get an SS-4 form and what to do next.

What Is An SS-4 Form?

Form SS-4 is an official form issued by the IRS that businesses use to apply for an EIN. This form is required when a business needs to be formally identified by the IRS for federal tax and reporting purposes.

An EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify a business entity. It functions similarly to a Social Security number, but instead of identifying an individual, it identifies a business.

More on that in the next section.

What Is An EIN? Why Apply For It?

Employer Identification Number (or EIN) is a nine-digit number that identifies different kinds of companies. Business owners should obtain one for tax purposes.

You’ll also need an EIN to file and pay payroll taxes if you have a few employees. Other companies will need it to file a business income tax return.

If you own a single-person LLC with no employees or a sole proprietor, then you’re the only exception to this law.

Your EIN can help you streamline your accounting and bookkeeping practices by separating your corporate and personal finances. You can also simplify your business loan application, establish business credit, and open a business bank account.

🔖 Related Read: 11 Common Mistakes Before Starting an LLC You’ll Wish Someone Warned You About

Why Do You Need An IRS SS-4 Form?

On top of identifying your business with the IRS, you’ll likely need an SS-4 Form when applying for business loans. It can prove that the IRS legally acknowledges your company, thus, the United States government.

You’ll need your EIN and SS-4 notice when applying for commercial loans.

Lenders will check your EIN and SS-4 for identification purposes. It’ll also be your proof that your business is based in the US.

You will not get a card when you receive your EIN, unlike your Social Security number. Your SS-4 Form serves the same purpose as your Social Security card. For that reason, lenders need a copy of your form.

Your lenders can’t use tax returns to verify your EIN. The IRS uses the number reported on your tax return to verify your business; however, you may have to deal with typos and clerical errors at some point.

Your accountant may have incorrectly provided your EIN, and the IRS still hasn’t notified you of that mistake. Finding a mistake and informing you of that mistake can take the agency months.

What If You Don’t Have An SS-4 Notice?

If you own a single-member LLC with no employees or a sole proprietorship, you may not need to apply for an EIN.

If you’re managing any other kind of business, your company is seen as a distinct and separate entity from you. You still have to apply for a business loan under the name of your company.

You should use your business’s EIN instead of your SSN, even if they ask you to provide a personal guarantee. That’s the time you’ll have to apply for an SS-4 notice.

If you’re applying for a personal loan, you won’t need an EIN or the IRS Form SS4. Your loan will be under your name, and your lender will use your social security number for verification instead of an EIN.

‍How To Get An SS-4 Form?

Filing for Form SS-4 isn’t the same as filing for other tax-related documents because the government needs more information from the applicant. But there are different ways you can fill out and apply for Form SS-4.

👉🏼 Option 1: File by Downloading the Form

• Download and print Form SS-4 from the IRS website.

• Fill out the form and submit it to the IRS.

• For assistance or follow-ups, contact the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at (800) 829-4933.

• Phone support is available Monday through Friday, from 7 AM to 7 PM.

👉🏼 Option 2: File Online

• Complete and submit Form SS-4 directly on the IRS website.

• Online applications use email-based correspondence.

• This makes it easier to locate your SS-4 confirmation and EIN details later.

Accessing Your EIN Assignment Letter

If you meet the IRS authorization requirements, your accountant can obtain and send you a copy of the EIN assignment letter.

For security reasons, the IRS will only deliver this letter to the official business address on record.

Your accountant will need your EIN and other business details for identification purposes. In some cases, they may also ask about your role in the company. This helps confirm that you’re authorized to request a copy of the EIN assignment letter.

🔖 Related Read: How to Double-Check and Review Completed IRS Tax Returns for Errors in 2025

Launch Your Business With doola

From formation to banking, we handle the red tape so you can focus on building your business, not battling bureaucracy.

With doola’s all-in-one platform, you can:

✅ Incorporate your US business in any state, 100% online.

✅ Open a US business bank account remotely with our trusted banking partners.

✅ Stay compliant with ongoing US tax filings, bookkeeping, and reporting requirements.

At doola, we have you covered for everything, from opening a US LLC, getting your EIN fast, and streamlining your business banking setup. 

Our platform is built specifically for a frictionless experience from day one, with no US address, no Social Security Number, and no complicated paperwork required.

Launch your US business today with us and experience how effortless expanding to the US can be.

FAQs

Can I get a copy of my SS4 online?

Filing for an EIN online is similar to sending the application through mail or going to the agency.

You’ll have to provide your mailing address, Social Security number, and name during the application process. You may also have to provide financial information such as annual gross income.

Once you’ve provided everything, you’ll have to answer a few questions about what kind of taxpayer you are: a corporation with more numerous stockholders, a partnership, or a sole proprietorship? Then, submit the form.

Where can I get the SS4 form?

Now, there are 3 ways to obtain an SS4 form from the IRS. You can get the form by mail, from your local IRS office, or their website.

Other possible areas to obtain the document are from different websites or your local library.

How long does it take to get an SS4?

If you didn’t include a tax return number, the application might take a few weeks.

If you apply by mail, make sure to send your completed Form SS-4. It can take at least a month before you can get your EIN to make a deposit or file a return.