An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to businesses and other organizations. It is used to identify the taxpayer for tax purposes.
There are a few ways to find out who an EIN belongs to.
1. Contact the IRS
The IRS maintains a database of all EINs. You can contact the IRS by phone or mail to request information about an EIN.
When you contact the IRS, you will need to provide the following information:
The IRS may ask you to provide additional information, such as the name and address of the business associated with the EIN.
2. Use a commercial database
There are a number of commercial databases that sell information about EINs. These databases typically charge a fee for access.
When choosing a commercial database, it is important to select one that is reputable and reliable. You should also read the terms of service carefully to understand how the database collects and uses your personal information.
3. Use a search engine
You can also try searching for the EIN on a search engine. However, this is not always reliable, as many websites that list EINs are inaccurate or outdated.
If you find an EIN on a search engine, it is important to verify the information with the IRS or a commercial database.
Limitations of each method
Each method of finding out who an EIN belongs to has its own limitations.
Contacting the IRS is the most reliable method, but it can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Commercial databases can be more convenient, but they can also be more expensive and less reliable. Searching on a search engine is the least reliable method, but it is also the most free.
When to use each method
The best method of finding out who an EIN belongs to depends on your specific needs. If you need accurate and reliable information, then you should contact the IRS or use a commercial database. If you are on a tight budget or need information quickly, then you can try searching on a search engine.
Conclusion
Finding out who an EIN belongs to can be a challenge. However, there are a number of methods available that can help you get the information you need. By understanding the limitations of each method, you can choose the one that is right for you.
