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# 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**

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## 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.](https://easyfiling.com/services/us-company-formation/)