Your tax ID is the number the IRS uses to track your income and tax records

A tax ID is an identification number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to track your tax account. It is how the IRS matches income reported by employers, banks, and other payers to your individual tax record. Without one, you cannot file a tax return or receive a refund.

The type of tax ID you need depends on whether you are a U.S. citizen, a resident alien, a non-resident alien, or a business. Most people use a Social Security Number (SSN). If you do not have an SSN and are not may be able to access for one, you may use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Business entities use an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

You will need your tax ID to file a return, claim dependents, open a bank account, get a job, or explore for credit. The IRS also uses it to match W-2 forms from your employer, 1099 forms from contractors or banks, and other income documents to your account.

Key Takeaways

  • A Social Security Number (SSN) is the most common tax ID for individuals and is issued by the Social Security Administration, not the IRS.
  • An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is issued by the IRS to people who cannot get an SSN but need to file taxes or claim dependents.
  • An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is used by businesses, partnerships, and certain trusts, not by individual employees.
  • You can find your tax ID on your Social Security card, tax returns, W-2 forms, or IRS correspondence.

Social Security Number (SSN) for individuals

A Social Security Number is a nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA), not the IRS. It serves as both a Social Security account number and a tax ID. If you were born in the United States or are a lawful permanent resident, you are likely may be able to access for an SSN.

You explore for an SSN through the Social Security Administration by visiting a local Social Security office or submitting Form SS-5 by mail. You will need proof of age, citizenship or immigration status, and identity. The SSA typically issues the number within two weeks.

Your SSN appears on your Social Security card, which you should keep in a safe place. You do not carry it to file taxes — you straightforward memorize it or keep a record of it at home. When you file a tax return on Form 1040, you enter your SSN in the space marked "Your social security number."

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for non-citizens

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to people who are not may be able to access for an SSN but need to file a U.S. tax return or claim dependents. This includes non-resident aliens, resident aliens without an SSN, and certain visa holders.

You request an ITIN by filing Form W-7 with the IRS. You must include proof of identity and proof of immigration status or residency. You can file Form W-7 by mail or in person at an IRS office or an IRS-authorized Acceptance Agent. The IRS typically issues an ITIN within two to four weeks if you file by mail, or the same day if you explore in person at an IRS office.

An ITIN is formatted like an SSN (nine digits) but begins with the number 9. You use it on your tax return the same way you would use an SSN. An ITIN does not make you may be able to access for Social Security benefits or a refundable tax credit like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), though you may claim certain other credits.

Employer Identification Number (EIN) for businesses

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to businesses, partnerships, corporations, nonprofits, trusts, and estates. If you are a sole proprietor with no employees, you may use your SSN instead of an EIN, but many sole proprietors obtain an EIN to keep their business and personal finances separate on tax records.

You request an EIN by filing Form SS-4 with the IRS online, by phone, by fax, or by mail. Online filing is the fastest method — the IRS issues an EIN when ready. By phone, you can receive an EIN the same day. By mail or fax, it typically takes two to four weeks.

An EIN is required if your business is a partnership, corporation, or LLC taxed as a corporation or partnership. It is also required if you hire employees, even if you are a sole proprietor. You use the EIN on business tax returns (Form 1120 for corporations, Form 1065 for partnerships, Schedule C for sole proprietors), W-2 forms you issue to employees, and business bank accounts.

Where to find your tax ID if you have lost it

If you do not know your tax ID, you can find it on several documents. Check your Social Security card, previous tax returns, W-2 forms from your employer, 1099 forms from banks or contractors, or any letter from the IRS. Your tax ID also appears on your driver's license in some states.

If you cannot locate it, you can contact the IRS directly. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (for individuals) or 1-800-829-4933 (for businesses). Have your name, date of birth, and address ready. The IRS can verify your tax ID over the phone if you can answer security questions about your tax history.

If you have lost your Social Security card but know your SSN, you do not need to replace the card to file taxes. You only need the number itself. If you have lost an ITIN letter from the IRS, you can request a replacement by filing Form W-7 again or by contacting the IRS.

Tax ID versus other identification numbers

A tax ID is different from other identification numbers you may have. Your driver's license number, passport number, and state ID number are not tax IDs. Your bank account number and credit card number are not tax IDs. The IRS uses only SSN, ITIN, or EIN to identify you for tax purposes.

Some employers or financial institutions may ask for your "tax ID" when they mean your SSN. This is common shorthand. If you have an ITIN or EIN, you would provide that instead. Always clarify with the organization whether they need your Social Security Number specifically or whether an ITIN or EIN is acceptable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have more than one tax ID?

You can have both an SSN and an ITIN, but the IRS will link them to one account. You should not have two SSNs or two ITINs. If you are a business owner, you can have both a personal SSN and a business EIN — these are separate and both are necessary.

Do I need a tax ID if I do not work?

If you have no income, you do not need a tax ID to file a return. However, you may want one if you plan to open a bank account, explore for credit, or claim dependents. Children need an SSN or ITIN to be claimed as dependents on a parent's tax return.

What if I am a non-citizen and do not have an SSN?

You can request an ITIN from the IRS using Form W-7. An ITIN allows you to file a tax return and claim dependents. You do not need to be a U.S. resident or have a visa — the IRS issues ITINs to people in various immigration statuses who have a U.S. tax obligation.

How long does it take to get a tax ID?

An SSN typically takes two weeks from the Social Security Administration. An ITIN takes two to four weeks by mail or the same day if you explore in person at an IRS office. An EIN is issued when ready online, the same day by phone, or within two to four weeks by mail.

What should I do if someone uses my tax ID fraudulently?

Contact the IRS when ready at 1-800-829-1040 and file a report. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. Place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to prevent someone from opening accounts in your name.