Just like some business entities, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers non-profits legal entities; they are not recognized as individuals, and therefore, certain types of federal tax IDs are not relevant to non-profits. For example, you may think different types of non-profit ID’s including Social Security Numbers (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) are used by non-profits, but you’d be wrong.
Non-profits are recognized using what’s called an Employer Identification Number, or EIN for short. With this number, non-profits can file for tax-exempt status, pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3).
All non-profits, before they can apply for tax-exempt status, must register for an EIN. This rule applies to all non-profit organizations, even those without employees, or those without the intention of acquiring employees in the future.
The IRS uses EINs to identify and track legal entities and their associated tax obligations—even if the legal entity is not required to pay income taxes. This nine-digit number is required to file for tax-exempt status. You can’t file for tax-exempt status, unless you register for an EIN first.
Once you obtain an EIN for a non-profit, it will stay with the organization in perpetuity, and will be used to file annual reports with the IRS.
There are several ways you can register for an EIN. Non-profits can apply for an EIN by phone, fax, or by mail. However, these application processes are slow, and often confusing.
The fastest and easiest way to apply for an EIN is to get an EIN online through a third party provider. In addition to simplifying the paperwork and application process, online applications are completed within 24 hours and delivered right to your inbox. Plus, you can check your EIN status online whenever you like.
Different types of non-profit ID’s, including SSN and ITIN, will not work if you need to file for tax-exempt status. Apply for your EIN online today, and you can start using it tomorrow to grow your non-profit.
With an EIN, or Federal Identification Number, your non-profit organization is recognized by the IRS as a unique tax paying entity within the United States of America. An EIN allows you to conduct many tax related activities, such as register for a bank account and do your tax-exempt status in April, and other things that you would normally need a Social Security Number for.
You need an EIN to get a tax-exempt status or 501(c)(3). To obtain the recognition from the IRS as a tax-exempt entity, you will need to fill out the Form 1023, a comprehensive 29-page form that takes a close look at your non-profit’s programs and structure. This form is then filed with the Exempt Organization Division of the IRS, located in Cincinnati, OH.
IRS EIN makes it simple and secure for you to apply for an Employer Identification Number right from the comfort of your own home on our swift and secure website. Simply pick what type of entity your organization is, answer a few simple questions, and receive your Federal Identification Number within a matter of days. You can also check the status of your EIN application anytime, anywhere.
We only use the information that you give us for your EIN application. Our website utilizes the latest technology to ensure all info provided to us is safe and protected from online hackers and thieves.
Trust in IRS EIN to get your non-profit organization the EIN it needs to conduct business properly. You will appreciate our great customer service and speedy delivery of your EIN.