How to Get Your IRS SS-4 Letter? (EIN Confirmation Letter Request Guide)

Get IRS SS-4 Letter – In the world of business taxation, an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is essential for entities like LLCs, corporations, partnerships, and even sole proprietors who hire employees. The IRS Form SS-4 is the application used to obtain this nine-digit federal tax ID. Once approved, the IRS issues a confirmation letter—often referred to as the “SS-4 letter” or EIN confirmation letter—verifying your EIN assignment. This document, officially known as CP-575 for mailed confirmations, is crucial for opening business bank accounts, applying for loans, filing taxes, and complying with vendor requirements.

If you’ve recently applied for an EIN or lost your original confirmation, this guide walks you through the process of obtaining or replacing it. We’ll cover step-by-step instructions based on the latest IRS procedures, ensuring you have the most accurate information for 2026.

What Is the IRS SS-4 Letter and Why Do You Need It?

The SS-4 letter is essentially the EIN confirmation notice sent by the IRS after processing your Form SS-4 application. It includes your business’s legal name, address, EIN, and the assignment date. Note that the IRS no longer annotates the actual Form SS-4 with your EIN for new applications. Instead, you’ll receive a dedicated confirmation document.

You might need this letter for:

  • Verifying your business identity with banks or financial institutions.
  • Registering for state taxes or business licenses.
  • Completing W-9 forms for clients or vendors.
  • Proving EIN validity during audits or compliance checks.

If you’ve lost the original (CP-575), you can request a replacement called the EIN Verification Letter, or Form 147C. This serves the same purpose and is accepted as official proof.

How to Apply for an EIN and Get Your Initial Confirmation Letter?

The best way to obtain your SS-4 confirmation letter is during the initial EIN application process. Here’s how, depending on your method:

1. Apply Online (Fastest and Free)

The IRS offers a free online tool for domestic applicants (those with a principal business address in the U.S. or U.S. territories).

  • Visit the IRS EIN application page and complete the interview-style questionnaire.
  • Submit in one session—it can’t be saved, and it times out after 15 minutes of inactivity.
  • If approved, your EIN is issued immediately. Print the on-screen confirmation notice, which acts as your official SS-4 letter.
  • Pro tip: Save a digital copy right away for your records.

This method is available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, and is limited to one EIN per day per responsible party.

2. Apply by Fax

  • Download and complete Form SS-4 from the IRS website.
  • Fax it to 855-641-6935 (or international numbers if applicable).
  • If you provide a return fax number, the IRS will send a cover sheet with your EIN within four business days.
  • This cover sheet serves as your confirmation, though it’s not the full CP-575 letter.

3. Apply by Mail

  • Complete Form SS-4 and mail it to: Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999.
  • Expect your EIN and CP-575 confirmation letter in about four weeks.
  • For international applicants, use a different address: Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN International Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999.

4. Apply by Phone (International Only)

  • Call 267-941-1099 (not toll-free) from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday.
  • Provide details from a completed Form SS-4; the representative will issue the EIN over the phone.
  • A confirmation letter (CP-575) will be mailed afterward.

Always apply directly through the IRS to avoid fees—third-party sites often charge unnecessarily.

How to Request a Replacement EIN Confirmation Letter (147C)?

If you’ve lost your original SS-4 confirmation or never received it, don’t reapply for a new EIN, as that could cause issues. Instead, request an EIN Verification Letter (147C). This is the official replacement and confirms your existing EIN.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a 147C Letter

  1. Gather Required Information: You’ll need your business name, address, EIN (if known), and details to verify your identity as an authorized party (e.g., owner, officer, or with power of attorney).
  2. Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: Dial 1-800-829-4933 (toll-free) between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. Alaska and Hawaii follow Pacific Time.
    • Be prepared for hold times—call early in the day or week for shorter waits.
    • Answer security questions to confirm you’re authorized.
  3. Request the 147C Letter: Specifically ask for the EIN Verification Letter (147C). The IRS can fax it immediately (provide a fax number) or mail it (arrives in 7-10 business days). They cannot email it for security reasons.
  4. Alternative: Mail a Written Request: If calling isn’t feasible, send a letter to the IRS with your business details and request for the 147C. Mail to the same address as your original application (e.g., Cincinnati EIN Operation). However, phone is faster.

Note: You cannot request a 147C online. If you don’t know your EIN at all, the IRS can look it up during the call using other business details like tax returns or bank records.

Tips for a Smooth Process

  • Check Existing Records First: Before contacting the IRS, search for your EIN on old tax returns (e.g., Form 1040 Schedule C), bank statements, or state licenses.
  • Avoid Common Mistakes: Don’t submit a new SS-4 if you already have an EIN—this creates duplicates and complications.
  • For Non-U.S. Entities: Use international application methods and expect mailed confirmations.
  • Processing Times: Online is instant; replacements via phone can be same-day via fax.
  • No Fees: This service is free, just like the initial EIN application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the Difference Between CP-575 and 147C?

The CP-575 is the initial confirmation letter sent after EIN approval. The 147C is a replacement verification letter for lost originals.

Can I Get the Confirmation Letter Online?

For new applications, yes—print it immediately after online approval. For replacements, no; you must call or mail.

What If I Never Received My Original Letter?

Request a 147C using the steps above. It will serve as your official confirmation.

How Long Does It Take to Get a 147C?

Fax: Immediate upon request. Mail: 7-10 days.

Who Can Request the Letter?

Only authorized individuals, such as the business owner, partner, or someone with Form 2848 Power of Attorney.

Obtaining your IRS SS-4 confirmation letter or its replacement is straightforward with the right steps. Start with the free online application for new EINs to get instant confirmation, or call the IRS for verifications. Always use official IRS channels to ensure accuracy and avoid scams. If you follow this guide, you’ll have your EIN documentation in hand quickly, keeping your business compliant and operational.

For the most up-to-date details, visit IRS.gov or contact them directly. This information is based on current 2026 guidelines and may change—check official sources for updates.