Employer ID Number (EIN) Online

The IRS set up an online application system at this link on their Web site:
http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=102767,00.html

Before you apply online, print out a copy of IRS Form SS-4, which you can get here:
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf

Fill in all the lines. And if you don't understand what IRS is asking on any line, carefully read the instructions and the information linked to the IRS page above.

Be sure to read the Top 5 Reasons for Rejection of an Application. Still have questions? Consult with your tax professional to be very clear on what you fill in.

Things like year end, type of entity, and business description are important -- and you need to understand their meaning before you file the application.

Once you have all the lines filled in, click on the online application and fill it in right on your computer screen. https://sa.www4.irs.gov/sa_vign/newFormSS4.do

If you do it right, you should get a temporary EIN immediately. And the IRS will send you a written confirmation a few days later.