Setting up your startup in the US? One of the first steps you’ll need to take after incorporation is to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). If you’re planning to open a business bank account, hire employees, or file federal taxes, you can’t skip this part. The good news? Getting an EIN is free, and the process is fairly straightforward if you know what to expect.
This guide walks you through the key steps to register for an EIN as a US startup business—and explains how the right accounting services in US can support your success along the way.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also called a Federal Tax Identification Number, is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It’s like a Social Security Number for your business and is used for tax reporting and identification purposes.
Most US small businesses will need an EIN, especially if you:
Hired or plan to hire employees
Operate your business as a corporation or partnership
Have a multi-member LLC
File certain tax returns (such as employment, excise, or alcohol/tobacco/firearms tax)
Open a business bank account
Apply for business licenses or permits
Even if your business doesn’t fall into one of these categories, getting an EIN is often a good idea—it keeps your personal information more secure and adds legitimacy to your operations.
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Applying for an EIN is free and can be done through the IRS. Here’s what to do:
Your principal business must be located in the United States or its territories. You must also have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (like a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number).
This is the person who ultimately owns or controls the business. For a startup, it’s typically the founder or primary owner.
Before you apply, prepare the following:
Legal name and trade name of the business
Business address and mailing address
Type of entity (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.)
Number of members (for LLCs)
Reason for applying (e.g., started a new business)
Expected employment and wages
Contact information
The fastest way to apply is through the IRS website. Once completed, you’ll receive your EIN immediately after verification.
You’ll receive a confirmation notice from the IRS. Keep this document in your records—it’s often required when applying for licenses, opening accounts, or filing tax forms.
Registering for an EIN is just the beginning. Once your US startup business is up and running, staying compliant and financially organized becomes critical. That’s where professional accounting services come in.
Here’s how they can support you:
Organize Your Finances from the Start
Accounting services help set up your books, separate personal and business finances, and build financial systems that grow with you.
Stay Tax Compliant
Whether it’s filing federal returns or managing payroll, accountants ensure you meet tax obligations and avoid penalties.
Ensure Clean, Audit-Ready Books
Accurate records are essential for tax season, funding applications, and growth. Accountants help you stay on top of it.
Save Time and Minimize Risk
Let professionals handle the complexities so you can focus on building your business with confidence.
Plan for Sustainable Growth
Financial forecasts, budgeting, and tax planning are easier with expert guidance—giving your US small business the foundation to scale.
To register as a US startup business, getting your EIN is one of the first—and most essential—steps. It allows you to legally operate, hire employees, and stay compliant with federal regulations. While applying for an EIN is relatively simple, building a sustainable business goes far beyond that.
Tired of Teaching Every New Accountant About Your Business? Traditional accounting services mean repeatedly explaining your business to new staff. Modern companies need systems that learn and remember—exactly what most accounting firms can’t deliver.
Counto’s intelligent accounting service adapts to your business. Our AI learns your specific patterns and transactions, then handles your daily bookkeeping automatically. Expert accountants review everything for accuracy, and your dedicated Customer Success Manager is always just a message or call away. No more repeated explanations, no more basic questions—just accounting that understands your business.
Join small businesses saving hours monthly on financial management with our outsourced accounting solution. Plus, with our AI handling the routine work, you’ll get better insights at a fraction of the cost of a full-time bookkeeper. Ready to upgrade your accounting? Chat with us now, email [email protected], or use our contact form.
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