Business services
Get an EIN for your California business
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a federal tax identification number issued by the IRS. You can apply directly with the IRS at no charge; our filing team’s preparation assistance is optional and carries a separate service fee. Eligibility and the responsible party’s information must be checked before applying.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Corp USA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
The requirements
What to know before you file
Issued by the IRS
An EIN is a federal identifier, not a California Secretary of State entity number.
Official source: https://www.irs.gov/instructions/iss4No IRS application fee
The IRS issues EINs free of charge. Any fee for our assistance is a service fee, not a government charge.
Official source: https://www.irs.gov/instructions/iss4Responsible party information
Review IRS Form SS-4 instructions for responsible-party requirements and the correct application method for your circumstances.
Official source: https://www.irs.gov/instructions/iss4The answers that matter
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The IRS provides free EIN applications; check its instructions for eligibility and application methods.
Official source: https://www.irs.gov/instructions/iss4No. An EIN identifies the business. An eligible entity generally makes an S election using Form 2553.
Official source: https://www.irs.gov/instructions/i2553Your next chapter. In California.
Review your options and costs before you order.
Corp USA is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.