How To Get An EIN In Delaware For An LLC: Mar. 2026 Guide

Choosing to form your LLC in Delaware offers numerous advantages. It’s considered a highly favorable state to start and grow your business entity, making it a key focus state in my series discussing how to successfully get an EIN.

Getting your Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a vital element in developing your Delaware LLC, regardless of your business type. Your EIN is issued by the Federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and, therefore, is not state-specific. However, its proper use is critical for your entire business operations and compliance in the state of Delaware.

I’ve taken you through the main consideration points to be aware of when filing your EIN application in Delaware. At the end of this article on how to get an EIN in Delaware for your LLC, you’ll be able to file with no issues at all.

EIN Overview

Your EIN, or Employee Identification Number, is issued by the IRS to several business entities, including Limited Liability Companies (LLCs). It acts as a unique 9-digit Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) that identifies your LLC with the IRS. Some of its main functions include:

• Helping prevent identity theft by safeguarding your Social Security Number (SSN).
• Adding credibility to your business.
• Allowing you to hire employees.
• Managing business finances.

1. EIN Synonyms

Before I get into the reasons why you need an EIN and how to get one, the table below lists the different terms for an EIN. Make sure that you’re aware of these so you don’t get confused.

When Should You Get An EIN?

While I’ll always advise that you get most of your business filings completed early, this isn’t the case for your EIN. When your Delaware LLC is officially approved, use the IRS Get An Employer Identification Number page to apply. This is crucial for two reasons:

1. If your LLC is approved, your official business name needs to match the one stated on your EIN Confirmation letter. This is the name on your Certificate of Formation.
2. If your LLC is rejected, you’ll need to refile with the state and wait for a new LLC name to be approved. In this case, you would need to cancel your old EIN application and start a new one.

How Do I File An EIN Application For My Delaware LLC?

You can apply for an EIN for your Delaware LLC using three primary methods. The correct one depends on your residency status alongside your desired processing time. These are:

1. Online (US Citizens & US Residents)

As a U.S. citizen or U.S. resident, the best way to apply for your EIN is by using the online application portal. This should be done if you have an SSN or an International Tax Identification Number (ITIN).

This is the easiest filing method with the quickest approval time. In most cases, your EIN Confirmation Letter will be issued at the end of a 15-minute online application process.

You can also apply for your EIN by mail or by fax. However, this is much slower than the online filing process, and is only recommended if the IRS gives you an EIN reference number error.

2. Mail Or Fax (Non-US Residents)

If you’re a non-U.S. resident and don’t have an SSN or ITIN, you can still apply for an EIN, but you won’t be able to use the online application portal.

You must mail or fax Form SS-4 to the IRS, which takes significantly longer than the online approval process.

Why Does Your Delaware LLC Need An EIN?

Obtaining an EIN is vital when operating a legitimate business in the United States. The unique 9-digit TIN identifies your company for state and federal tax purposes. Furthermore, it ensures your business remains compliant according to the IRS and the Delaware business regulations.

These are the two main reasons why you must obtain an EIN for your Delaware LLC:

1. To meet Delaware state business and tax requirements.
2. To satisfy federal IRS reporting and compliance obligations.

1. Delaware State Obligations

Your LLC must register for the required business licenses and tax permits to legally operate in Delaware. In order to obtain your Delaware Business License, you need to complete the Combined Registration Application (CRA) with the Delaware Division of Revenue.

This is a key step in the application process, and requires an EIN to complete the application. If you don’t have one, you can’t complete the CRA and obtain your Delaware Business License.

• You CANNOT open a business bank account in your company’s name.
• Your LLC CANNOT begin lawful business operations in the state of Delaware until the EIN application is completed and registered.

If you need help completing the CRA form, you can check out my guide on How To Get A Delaware Business License.

2. Federal Tax Obligations

The IRS requires most Delaware businesses to obtain an EIN for federal tax reporting and identification. This is in addition to the state requirements specified above.

The consequences of not having one depend on whether you’re a U.S. resident or a foreign business owner. I’ve detailed the potential penalties below for each category.

EIN Approval (EIN Confirmation Letter)

Once the IRS issues your EIN, you’ll receive an EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575). This acts as official proof that your LLC has officially been assigned an EIN, showing that you’re acting as an employer.

Your chosen application method determines how you’ll receive your confirmation letter. Online applications are processed immediately, while mail and fax applications take significantly longer.

When filing online, you’ll be able to download your EIN Confirmation Letter at the end. If by mail or fax, the IRS will send your letter in the mail.

IRS Contact Information

Once you’ve got through, these are the options you’re presented with:

IRS Contact Number: 1-800-829-4933. Their business hours are 7 A.M. – 7 P.M. EST (Monday – Friday).

These are your options once you get through:

• Press “1” for English.
• Press “1” for EINs.
• Press “3” if you have an EIN but can’t remember it.

Frequently Asked Questions