An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, (FEIN) and is used to identify a business entity, trust, estate, and various other entities. The EIN number can be used for a variety of business entities, including sole proprietorships, S corporations and C corporations. An EIN is usually required to open a business bank account, and for a business to be eligible for local business licenses and permits. You should have only one EIN.
The IRS issues employer identification number (EIN) numbers. This 9-digit number is used on federal and state tax filings for businesses, including payroll tax reporting documents.