Articles on: Taxes

How to Get an EIN for Your Delaware C Corporation

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Every Delaware C Corporation must obtain an EIN before opening a bank account, hiring employees, or filing taxes.


What Is an EIN?


An EIN is also called a Federal Tax Identification Number. It functions like a Social Security Number for your business. You will need it for:


  • Opening a US business bank account
  • Filing federal and state tax returns
  • Hiring employees
  • Applying for business licenses and permits
  • Setting up payroll
  • Establishing business credit


When to Apply for an EIN


Apply for your EIN immediately after your company is incorporated in Delaware. You cannot open a US bank account without one, so getting the EIN early keeps your formation process moving forward smoothly.


How to Apply for an EIN


Option 1: Apply Online (Fastest)


The IRS offers a free online EIN application at irs.gov. The process takes about 15 minutes and you receive your EIN immediately upon completion.


Requirements:

  • The responsible party must have a US Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
  • The online system is available Monday through Friday, 7am to 10pm Eastern Time


Option 2: Apply by Fax


Complete IRS Form SS-4 and fax it to the IRS. You will receive your EIN within 4 business days.


Option 3: Apply by Mail


Mail the completed Form SS-4 to the IRS. Processing takes 4 to 5 weeks.


Option 4: Apply by Phone (International Applicants)


Non-US founders without an SSN or ITIN can apply by calling the IRS at +1-267-941-1099. This line is available Monday through Friday, 6am to 11pm Eastern Time.


EIN for Non-US Founders


If you are a non-US founder without an SSN or ITIN, you cannot use the online IRS system. Your options are:


  • Phone application: Call the IRS international line directly
  • Third-party service: Use a registered agent or formation service to obtain the EIN on your behalf using a Form SS-4 with a third-party designee authorization


EasyFiling assists non-US founders in obtaining their EIN as part of the company formation package.


Information Needed to Apply


When applying for your EIN, you will need:


  • Legal name of the corporation
  • Trade name (if different from legal name)
  • State of incorporation (Delaware)
  • Date of incorporation
  • Responsible party's name and SSN/ITIN
  • Business address
  • Type of entity (C Corporation)
  • Reason for applying
  • Number of employees expected in the next 12 months
  • Principal business activity


After You Receive Your EIN


Once you have your EIN:


  1. Save the EIN confirmation letter (CP 575) — this is your official proof of EIN
  2. Open a business bank account using your EIN and incorporation documents
  3. Share with your registered agent and accountant
  4. Use on all federal and state tax filings



Need Help Getting Your EIN?


EasyFiling helps founders — including non-US founders — obtain their EIN quickly and hassle-free as part of our company formation services. Get started today.

Updated on: 21/02/2026

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