Your Complete Guide to the EIN Letter From IRS

So, you’ve successfully formed your US company and even secured your Employer Identification Number (EIN). That’s a huge step! But before you pop the champagne, there's one more critical piece of paper you need to get your hands on: the EIN letter from the IRS.

Think of it as your company's official birth certificate. The nine-digit EIN is just a number, but the letter is the government-stamped proof that this number belongs to your business. For founders, especially those based internationally, this document isn't just important—it's the key that unlocks the US banking system. Without it, your business is stuck in neutral.

Why This Letter Is So Important

At its core, this letter serves as undeniable proof of your business's identity and its registration with federal tax authorities. It's the document that legitimizes your company in the eyes of banks, state agencies, and other financial institutions.

Here’s why it’s a non-negotiable for any new business:

• Opening a US Business Bank Account: This is the big one. Banks are legally required to verify your business, and the official EIN letter is the gold standard they demand. No letter, no account.

• Filing Federal and State Taxes: When tax season rolls around, you’ll need the information on this letter to file your returns correctly.

• Applying for Licenses and Permits: Many state and local agencies will ask for a copy of your EIN letter before they’ll issue the licenses you need to operate.

• Building Business Credit: Looking to establish credit with suppliers? They'll use your EIN to check your company’s financial history, and it all starts with this letter.

The IRS is a massive organization, sending out a mind-boggling 170 million notices to taxpayers each year. Your EIN confirmation is just one of those millions of pieces of paper, but for your business, it's one of the most important you'll ever receive.

The Different Types of EIN Confirmation Documents

When people talk about an "EIN letter," they're usually referring to one of a few specific documents. It's helpful to know which is which, as they aren't all created equal. The most common one you'll encounter is the CP 575 notice, which is the original confirmation the IRS mails out after assigning a new EIN.

This document clearly shows your registered business name, address, and your newly assigned EIN. It's the primary, definitive proof that banks and agencies want to see.

To help you keep these straight, here’s a quick rundown of the main documents you might encounter.

Quick Guide to IRS EIN Confirmation Documents

Document Type	Official IRS Name	When You Get It	Primary Use Case
New EIN Confirmation	CP 575	Once, after your EIN is first issued by mail.	The "original" proof for opening bank accounts and initial setup.
EIN Verification Letter	147C Letter	On request, if you've lost your original CP 575.	A valid replacement for the CP 575; used for bank accounts.
Application Copy	Form SS-4	A copy of the application you filed to get the EIN.	Often used as temporary proof while awaiting the CP 575.

While the CP 575 is the original, don't panic if you lose it. As the table shows, you can request an EIN Verification Letter (147C), which serves the same purpose and is widely accepted.

For a deeper dive into the EIN itself, be sure to check out our complete guide on what an EIN number is and how to get one.

Decoding the Different IRS EIN Confirmation Letters

When you're dealing with the IRS, navigating their documents can feel like learning a new language. The official names all sound frustratingly similar, and when it comes to proving your business exists, not every ein letter from irs does the same job.

It helps to think of these documents like different forms of personal ID. Your passport, driver's license, and birth certificate all prove who you are, but you wouldn't use your birth certificate to get on a plane. The same logic applies here.

Understanding the three key documents that verify your Employer Identification Number (EIN) is crucial. Knowing which one to use for opening a bank account, filing taxes, or registering with a state will save you a ton of headaches and rejected applications down the line. Let's break them down.

The CP 575 Notice: Your Original EIN Certificate

Think of the CP 575 as your business's "birth certificate." It's the original, official notice the IRS mails you right after they assign your new EIN. This is the primary document that proves your EIN is active and officially tied to your company.

When you get this letter in the mail, you'll see it clearly lists:

• Your official business name

• Your newly assigned nine-digit EIN

• The business address the IRS has on record

• The federal tax forms you're expected to file

Because it's the original proof, the CP 575 is what most institutions want to see. Banks, especially, prefer this letter when you're opening that first business account. My advice? Scan a digital copy immediately and keep the physical letter somewhere safe. The IRS only ever sends it once.

The 147C Letter: Your Official Replacement

So, what happens if you lose your CP 575? First off, don't panic—it happens all the time. The IRS has a process for this, and the solution is a document called the Letter 147C. This isn’t a downgrade; it's an equally powerful EIN verification letter.

The Letter 147C serves the exact same purpose as the CP 575. It is not a secondary or less official form of proof. Banks and government agencies widely recognize and accept it as definitive confirmation of your EIN.

You do have to request this letter directly from the IRS; they won't send it automatically. It contains the same vital information—your company name, address, and EIN—and acts as the official stand-in for a lost CP 575. For our founders in the UK, getting a 147C by phone and then fax is often the quickest way to get back on track.

Quick tip: To figure out what any IRS notice is about, just look at the code in the top-right corner. That code, whether it's a CP2000 or an LTR series, is your decoder ring. In fact, the IRS's 200 most common notices make up 90% of their volume and are being redesigned for Filing Season 2026 to be clearer. You can learn more by checking out the IRS's own guide to understanding tax notices and letters.

The Form SS-4: Your Application Record

Finally, there's the Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number. This is the application you (or a service like ours) filled out to get the EIN in the first place. While it does have your EIN on it—sometimes even handwritten or stamped by an agent—it's fundamentally different from the other two letters.

Here's the distinction: the SS-4 is your request, while the CP 575 or 147C is the official approval.

Some places might accept a faxed-back, stamped SS-4 as temporary proof, but it's a real gamble. To avoid delays, especially with the online banks popular with international founders, always aim to have either the CP 575 or a Letter 147C ready to go. These are the documents that will make your banking and compliance journey smooth and simple.

Why Your EIN Letter Is Your Golden Ticket to US Banking

Think of that official EIN letter from the IRS as your company's passport to the US market. It's easy to dismiss it as just another bit of paperwork, but for a UK founder, this document is the master key that unlocks your entire American operation. Its most immediate and crucial role? Getting your US business bank account open.

Just as a UK bank would ask for your Companies House registration, US banks like Mercury and Relay operate under strict "Know Your Customer" (KYC) rules. They need to see an official IRS document to confirm your business's legal name, address, and—most importantly—its Employer Identification Number. Without it, your application stops dead in its tracks. You'll be unable to accept payments, manage funds, or move forward.

More Than Just a Pass for Banking

While opening a bank account is often the first hurdle, this letter’s usefulness goes far beyond that initial deposit. It’s a foundational document you’ll need for almost every significant business activity in the States.

Having that letter in hand means you can:

• Open a US Business Bank Account: This is the big one. It's the non-negotiable proof that online and traditional banks require to verify your company's identity and tax status.

• File Federal and State Tax Returns: When tax season rolls around, the EIN on this letter is how the IRS and state tax agencies will identify your company on all filings.

• Hire Employees and Set Up Payroll: If you plan on bringing US-based talent aboard, your EIN is essential for registering for payroll taxes and correctly reporting wages.

• Build Business Credit: Suppliers, vendors, and lenders will use your EIN to look up your company's credit profile. You can't start building that history without a properly documented EIN.

• Obtain Business Licenses and Permits: Many city and state authorities will ask for a copy of your EIN letter from the IRS before they issue the specific licenses you need to operate legally.

Each of these steps is a building block for a legitimate, scalable US company. We cover this in more detail in our guide on what documents you need to open a company bank account.

Why the EIN Letter is Your Compliance Shield

This document is also your first line of defense for staying compliant. The IRS communicates through official mail, and having your EIN confirmed ensures you're properly registered to get those notices. For instance, an IRS letter might alert you to a filing discrepancy or an outstanding balance.

An official EIN letter establishes your business in the federal system, ensuring you receive critical communications. Ignoring or never receiving these notices can lead to significant penalties and operational disruptions for your US entity.

Common notices, like the CP2000 which proposes changes to a tax return, are sent out all the time. For non-resident e-commerce sellers, these letters often relate to state-level sales tax obligations, especially since the Wayfair Supreme Court decision created "economic nexus." This means remote sellers with over $100,000 in sales or 200 transactions in a state annually are often required to collect and remit sales tax there. It's vital to understand what these different state and IRS notices mean for your business.

Ultimately, holding onto your EIN letter isn't just about checking a box. It’s about laying a solid foundation for every financial and legal move your company will make in the American market.

How to Get a Replacement EIN Letter From the IRS

So, you’ve misplaced your original EIN confirmation letter, the CP 575. First, take a breath. This happens to founders all the time, and it's not a deal-breaker. The fix is surprisingly simple: you just need to request an official replacement from the IRS.

This replacement document is called an EIN Verification Letter 147C. Don't think of it as a second-rate copy; it's the official, legally valid substitute that banks, state agencies, and payment processors accept without batting an eye. It carries the exact same weight as your original letter.

The real challenge isn't if you can get one, but how quickly. Getting this letter is often the one thing standing between you and opening your U.S. business bank account.

This chart lays out the fork in the road you're at. If you can't find your letter, the next step is clear.

As you can see, getting that letter in hand is the key that unlocks your next crucial business milestones.

Method 1: Call the IRS (The Fastest Way)

Believe it or not, the quickest way to get a 147C Letter is to pick up the phone and call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line. I know, calling the IRS sounds about as fun as a root canal, but for this specific task, it’s usually a direct and efficient process.

The secret to a smooth, quick call is preparation. Having all your information ready before you dial proves to the agent that you're the authorized person for the business.

Here’s what you need to have in front of you:

• Your full name and your role in the company (e.g., Member, Director, Owner).

• The exact legal name of your business.

• Your Employer Identification Number (EIN). If you don’t have it memorized, they can sometimes find it with other details, but it's best to have it.

• The business mailing address the IRS has on file.

• Your company's entity type (like LLC or C Corporation).

• The main tax form your business files (for example, a Form 1120 for a C Corp).

Pro Tip: IRS hold times are legendary. To minimize your wait, try calling right when they open at 7:00 a.m. (local time) or later in the week. Wednesdays and Thursdays are often less busy than Mondays.

Step-by-Step Guide to Calling the IRS

Once you've gathered your documents, you're ready to make the call.

1. Dial the Number: Call the Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. They're open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday.

2. Navigate the Phone Tree: Listen closely to the automated menu. You're looking for the option related to "Employer Identification Number" or "Business Taxes."

3. Make Your Request: When you get a live agent, be direct and clear. Say, "I need to request an EIN Verification Letter, the 147C, for my business."

4. Answer the Security Questions: The agent will now use the information you prepared to confirm your identity. Answer confidently.

5. Choose How to Receive It: This is the most critical step. You'll be offered two options: mail or fax. If you need this letter quickly, always choose fax. A mailed letter can take 4-6 weeks to reach a U.S. address—and even longer for international founders. A fax can arrive within minutes.

Don't have a fax machine? Nobody does. Simply sign up for a secure online fax service. Give the IRS agent your new e-fax number, and the 147C will be delivered straight to your email as a PDF. This one little trick can save you weeks of frustrating delays.

Method 2: Mail or Fax a Written Request (The Slowest Way)

If calling just isn't in the cards, you can submit a written request for your 147C letter via mail or traditional fax. Be warned: this method is significantly slower and should be your last resort.

You’ll need to write a formal letter that includes all the same verification details listed above, sign it as the authorized party, and send it to the appropriate IRS service center.

To give you a clearer picture, here's how the different methods stack up.

Comparing Methods to Get Your EIN Verification Letter (147C)

Requesting a replacement 147C Letter can be done in a few ways, but the speed and requirements vary dramatically. This table breaks down your options to help you choose the best path forward for your situation.

Method	Estimated Timeline	Information Needed	Best For
Phone Call	Minutes to hours (if faxed); 4-6+ weeks (if mailed)	Full business details, EIN, personal info for verification	Speed. Anyone who needs the letter ASAP for banking or other deadlines.
Written Mail	6-8+ weeks	A signed letter with full business details, EIN, and personal info for verification	Founders who are not in a hurry and cannot call the IRS for any reason.
Written Fax	4-5 business days	A signed letter with full business details, EIN, and personal info for verification	A decent backup if calling fails, but still much slower than a phone/fax combo.

Ultimately, the processing time for a mailed request can easily stretch beyond a month, and that's before you even account for the postal service. For our international clients especially, this kind of delay makes the mail-in option a non-starter. The phone call remains the undisputed champion for getting what you need, fast.

Expert Tips for International Founders

If you're launching a US company from abroad, you’ve probably discovered that getting an ein letter from irs isn't as straightforward as the guides suggest. Most advice just doesn't account for the real-world headaches of dealing with an American government agency from a different continent—like battling time zones for phone calls or waiting on snail mail that might never show up.

These aren't small hiccups. They're major roadblocks that can put your entire launch on hold for weeks, if not months. But there’s a smarter way to handle it. With a little bit of upfront strategy, you can completely avoid these common frustrations.

The International Founder's Dilemma

The IRS was built to serve a domestic audience, so its main communication channels are phone and traditional mail. For a founder in the UK, this system feels broken from the start. Calling the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line means setting a 2 a.m. alarm just to catch their East Coast business hours. Then come the infamous hold times, which feel a lot longer when you’re burning the midnight oil.

And even if you successfully navigate the phone tree and speak to an agent, their default method for sending you documents is the postal service. A letter that takes a few weeks to cross the US can easily take a month or more to reach the UK—assuming it doesn't get lost. That kind of delay is a deal-breaker when a bank is waiting on that letter to open your business account.

The real challenge for international founders isn't the complexity of IRS rules. It's the logistics. The system simply wasn't designed for entrepreneurs operating from another country.

The best solution is to establish a reliable US presence—even a virtual one—right from the get-go. This one move changes the entire process from a logistical nightmare into a simple, predictable task.

Your Two Most Powerful Tools

To get around these obstacles, you really only need two things acting as your boots-on-the-ground in the United States.

1. A Professional Formation Service: This is your first and most important step. Using a service like Set Up Stateside to form your entity and get your EIN means we manage the entire application. We receive the initial CP 575 EIN confirmation notice directly from the IRS on your behalf and immediately send you a high-quality digital scan. You get the official ein letter from irs in your inbox, ready to go, without ever waiting on international post.

2. A US Virtual Address and Registered Agent: This service provides you with a stable, physical address in the US. It becomes the official destination for all correspondence from the IRS, state agencies, and other important entities. Your mail is received, scanned, and uploaded to a secure portal for you to access anytime, anywhere. You'll never have to wonder if a critical tax notice got lost somewhere over the Atlantic.

These two services work in tandem to bridge the gap between your home base and the US administrative system, effectively eliminating the time and distance problems that trap so many international founders. You can dive deeper into the specific issues and workarounds for British entrepreneurs in our detailed guide to getting an EIN verification letter in the UK.

By putting this structure in place from day one, you turn a potential source of massive stress and delay into just another checked box on your launch list. It's the kind of insider knowledge that lets you stay focused on what actually matters: building your business.

Common Questions We Hear About EIN Letters

Alright, you've successfully formed your U.S. company and have an EIN. But getting the number is one thing; proving you have it is another. Founders often get stuck here, running into a few common, nagging questions. Let's clear those up right now so you can get your bank account open and your business running.

Can I Just Download My EIN Letter From the IRS Website?

This is a big one, and the answer is, unfortunately, no. The IRS doesn't have an online portal where you can just log in and download your official EIN letter (the CP 575) or its replacement (the 147C).

The original CP 575 is sent only once, by physical mail, right after your EIN is issued. It's a system that feels a bit dated, and it trips up a lot of founders who are used to everything being digital.

Now, if you applied for your EIN online yourself, you might remember seeing a link to download the confirmation right after you were approved. Here's the catch: that's a one-time-only link. If you close that window or your browser crashes, it's gone for good. You can't go back and get it later.

This is exactly why the digital copy provided by a service like Set Up Stateside is so vital. If you lose that proof and missed the one-time IRS download, you're back to square one. You'll have to formally request an EIN Verification Letter 147C from the IRS, and your online IRS tax account won't give you the official, bank-ready document you need.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Replacement 147C Letter?

The time it takes to get a replacement EIN letter from the IRS—the Letter 147C—varies wildly depending on how you ask for it. We're not talking a difference of a few days; it can be weeks or even months.

• By Phone and Fax (Fastest): This is, by far, the quickest route. You call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line and ask them to fax the letter to a secure fax number. If you have a digital fax service set up, you could have the letter in your hands in a few hours, sometimes even minutes. For any founder on a deadline, this is the way to go.

• By Mail (Slowest): If you ask the IRS to mail the letter, settle in for a long wait. It typically takes 4-6 weeks to arrive at a U.S. address. For an international address, like in the UK, you could be looking at 8 weeks or more.

This isn't just an inconvenience; a two-month delay can completely derail your launch. It means two months without a U.S. bank account, which means you can't get paid, you can't use payment processors, and your business is effectively on hold.

Will a US Bank Accept My Form SS-4 Instead of an EIN Letter?

Trying to open a bank account with just your Form SS-4 is a gamble, and it's one that rarely pays off. While the SS-4 is the application you used to get your EIN and has the number on it, banks don't see it as official proof.

Think of it this way: the Form SS-4 is like your application for a passport. The CP 575 or 147C is the actual passport itself. Banks, especially the online banks popular with international founders like Mercury and Relay, are very strict about this. They need to see the official document from the government confirming the EIN has been issued, not just your request for one.

To avoid getting your application rejected, always use the original CP 575 or a requested Letter 147C. Submitting a copy of your SS-4, even a stamped one faxed back by the IRS, will almost certainly lead to delays while the bank asks for the correct document.

My EIN Letter Has an Old Address. Is That a Problem?

Yes, an old address on your EIN letter from the IRS can absolutely cause problems. Banks and state agencies need to verify your current business details as part of their standard compliance checks. When the address on your EIN letter doesn't match the one on your bank application or other company documents, it raises a red flag.

This single discrepancy can trigger:

• An outright rejection of your bank account application.

• Significant delays as the bank asks for more documents to prove your current address.

• Headaches when trying to register for state taxes or local business permits.

If your business address has changed, you need to tell the IRS. The official way to do this is by filing Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party. This form updates the IRS's main file for your business.

After the IRS processes your Form 8822-B (which can take a few weeks), you can then call them to request a fresh Letter 147C. This new letter will show your current, correct address, making all your official paperwork consistent. It’s a bit of administrative work, but it’s essential for keeping your U.S. company compliant and operational.

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Juggling U.S. entity formation and IRS rules from the UK is tough. At Set Up Stateside, we handle these critical steps for you every day, from getting your EIN and the official letter to providing ongoing accounting and tax support. Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on growing your business.