An IRS letter 147c, also known as an EIN verification letter, is a letter the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sends a company when it has lost or misplaced its Employer Identification Number (EIN) and needs to confirm what it is. A 147c letter is not a request for the IRS to create an EIN; the IRS sends it to tell you your existing EIN.
What Does EIN Stand For?
EIN stands for an employee identification number. The IRS assigns this nine-digit number, formatted as XX-XXXXXXX. The IRS uses EINs to identify businesses for tax-related purposes.
When Should I Request an EIN Letter?
As a business, you will likely encounter situations where you are required to provide official documentation of your EIN. Filing taxes, opening a business bank account, and applying for business permits are just a few examples of when you’ll need to provide your EIN. If you can’t remember your EIN or find anything that documents it, you’ll need to request an EIN letter to obtain that information.
How Do I Request an IRS Letter 147c?
To request a 147c letter from the IRS, contact the IRS Business and Specialty Tax line at 1-800-829-4933. They are open Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Be prepared to answer several security questions. After that, the IRS will mail or fax you your 147c letter.