An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also called a Federal Tax Identification Number (TIN), is a unique 9-digit number the IRS uses to identify a business. Most businesses need an EIN for tax reporting and other official purposes.
An EIN is formatted like this:
XX-XXXXXXX
The first two digits are separated from the remaining seven digits by a dash.
Where Can I Find My Employer’s EIN?
If you're entering employer information on your tax return, you can usually find the EIN on one of your tax forms:
On Form W-2
Look in Box b of your W-2. Your employer's EIN appears directly above the employer's name and address.
On Form 1099
On most 1099 forms, the payer's EIN is located just below the payer's name and address, typically on the left side of the form.
Need Help Finding an EIN?
If you can't locate your employer's EIN or the number is missing from your tax documents, contact your employer or payer directly. The EIN must be entered accurately to help ensure your tax return is processed correctly.
Why the EIN Matters
Your employer's EIN helps the IRS match the income reported on your tax return with the information reported by your employer or payer. Entering the correct EIN can help prevent processing delays and reduce the chance of your return being rejected.