How to Get Your EIN as a Self-Employed Tradesperson
As a self-employed tradesperson – whether you're a plumber, roofer, tile installer, or drywaller – your Employer Identification Number (EIN) is your business's tax ID. Think of it like your Social Security Number, but for your business. You'll need this free number to open a business bank account, file taxes for your trade work, set up accounts with suppliers like Home Depot or Ferguson, and if you ever hire a helper. Getting your EIN from the IRS is free, fast, and something you can easily do yourself. Don't pay anyone else to do this for you.
READY TO TAKE ACTION?
Use the free LaunchAdvisor checklist to track every step in this guide.
The Quick Answer
Get your EIN directly from the IRS website at irs.gov. It costs you $0. It takes about five minutes, and you'll get your EIN instantly. Some online services charge you $50-$75 to get an EIN. That money could buy you a new impact driver bit set, a box of plumbing fittings, or a few bundles of shingles. These services do the exact same thing you can do yourself, in less time. Don't waste your hard-earned money. The only time to let a paid service get your EIN is if you're already paying them for a full business setup package, and it's included.
IRS Direct vs Formation Service: Side-by-Side
IRS Direct (irs.gov): $0 cost. About 5 minutes of your time. You get your EIN number instantly. You need to be a U.S. citizen or resident with a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This is the best choice for almost all self-employed tradespeople. Formation Service (like ZenBusiness or Bizee): These usually charge an extra $40-$75 for an EIN. It can take 1-5 business days for them to apply and send it to you. They do the same online application you can do. This option is mostly for people who aren't U.S. citizens and can't apply directly online, or if you're already paying for a big setup package and the EIN is included. Phone Application: $0 cost. Takes about 30 minutes by phone. Use this if you can't complete the online form for some reason.
Step-by-Step: IRS Online Application
1. Go to irs.gov. Look for "Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) Online" or search for "EIN Assistant." 2. Select your business type. For most solo tradespeople, this will be a Sole Proprietorship. If you set up an LLC for liability protection, pick LLC. 3. Enter your business info. This includes your legal business name (which might just be your own name if you're a sole proprietor), the state where you do business, your name, and your SSN. 4. Answer simple questions about your trade activities. Are you a plumber, roofer, floor installer, or something else? 5. Check everything carefully, then submit. 6. Your EIN will show up right away on the confirmation screen. Print it or save it as a PDF. Keep it safe with your other important business papers, like your trade license or insurance documents. The online form is open Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 10 PM Eastern Time.
When to Use a Formation Service for Your EIN
Only pay an outside service to get your EIN if: you are not a U.S. citizen and don't have an SSN or ITIN (then you'd likely apply by phone or mail anyway), or if you already paid for a full business setup package that includes EIN service. If you don't fit these specific cases, do it yourself. Every dollar saved means more money for tools, materials, or putting gas in your work van.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't apply before your LLC is officially set up. If you're setting up an LLC, make sure the state has approved it first. The EIN belongs to that legal business. If you're a sole proprietor, this isn't an issue. Don't pay websites that show up first in search results but aren't irs.gov. Many of these sites charge you for something you can get free from the IRS. It's like paying someone to hand you a free brochure. Don't lose your EIN confirmation letter. Your bank will ask for it when you open your business account for your plumbing, roofing, or flooring company. Government agencies might also need it. Treat it like a permit for a big job – keep it safe. If you do lose it, you can call the IRS Business Specialty Tax Line to get it again.
The Verdict
Do it yourself at irs.gov. It's free, instant, and exactly the same result as paying someone else. The five minutes you spend getting your EIN is time well spent, giving you the best return for setting up your new solo trade business. That's five minutes you can then use to quote a new job, load up your truck, or sharpen your tools.
How to Get Started
To get started, have your business's legal name (this might just be your personal name if you're a sole proprietor), the state where you work, and your personal Social Security Number (SSN) handy. Go to irs.gov and find the online EIN application. Fill out the form, save your confirmation letter as a PDF, and store it securely with your other business records – like your receipts for job materials, insurance papers, or certifications. You'll definitely need it when you open your dedicated bank account for your trade business.
RECOMMENDED TOOLS
IRS EIN Application
Free, instant EIN directly from the IRS
ZenBusiness
EIN service available as an add-on to formation packages
Bizee
EIN obtainment included in formation packages
Some links above are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you sign up — at no extra cost to you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I apply for an EIN before my LLC is approved?
Technically you can, but it is not recommended. The EIN should be tied to your legal entity name. Apply after your Articles of Organization are approved.
Do I need a new EIN if I change my business structure?
Sometimes. Converting a sole proprietorship to an LLC requires a new EIN. Adding or removing partners may require one too. Check with the IRS or a CPA when changing structures.
Is an EIN the same as a state tax ID?
No. Your EIN is a federal tax ID. Many states also require a separate state tax ID for sales tax or employer withholding. Your state's Department of Revenue handles state tax ID registration.
Apply This in Your Checklist