The Common Law

I Am Starting My Small Business – How Do I Get a Federal Tax Identification Number?

I just started my own business. I created an LLC and have been told that I now need a federal tax identification number. Do I really need it, and if so, how do I get it?

If you are starting a small business in Texas, you will most likely want to get a federal tax identification number (or tax ID), which is sometimes also referred to as an employer identification number. The tax ID is assigned by the Internal Revenue Service to your business, and it is used to identify your business to several federal agencies responsible for the regulation of business.

As a general rule, any business that has employees and/or offers products or services that are taxed in any way must get a tax ID. From a practical standpoint, the tax ID will allow you to do basic tasks that are essential for your business' growth. For example, it will help you to open a bank account in the name of your business. A tax ID number is also typically needed for business contracts, loan applications, filing tax returns, paying employees, and a host of related items.

Setting up a federal tax ID is not difficult and can normally be done without the assistance of an accountant or lawyer. To set up a federal tax ID number, you will need to fill out IRS Form SS-4. Contact your nearest IRS field office, or call the IRS business and specialty tax hotline (800/829-4933) for assistance. Check out the IRS website (www.irs.gov; search "employer identification number") for more information on whether your business needs a federal tax identification number and how to obtain it.