Getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN) directly from the IRS costs $0. The IRS issues EINs for free through IRS.gov. Any charge from another website, accountant, attorney or business-formation service is a private service fee, not an IRS application fee.
EIN Cost at a Glance
| Option | Cost | What You Receive |
|---|---|---|
| Apply directly through the IRS | $0 | An EIN issued by the IRS |
| Use a third-party EIN service | Varies | Application assistance for a separate fee |
| Ask an accountant or attorney to apply | Varies | The EIN application plus professional assistance |
| Form an LLC or corporation | Separate state fee | Business formation, not the EIN |
How to Get an EIN for Free
You can get an EIN for free by applying directly through the IRS online EIN application. Eligible applicants can receive an EIN online in minutes without paying an application fee.
You can also apply with Form SS-4 by fax or mail. International applicants who do not have a U.S. residence, principal place of business or principal office may use the IRS international telephone number instead of the domestic online application.
Before you apply:
- Form the business or organization first when formation is required.
- Identify the business's responsible party.
- Make sure the application matches the responsible party's taxpayer identification records.
- Submit only one EIN application for the same entity.
The IRS generally issues only one EIN per responsible party per day.
What Do Third-Party EIN Services Charge?
Third-party EIN services set their own fees. The cost depends on the provider and the help included with the application.
Some providers also offer:
- LLC or corporation formation
- Registered-agent services
- Business license research
- Tax registration
- Operating agreements
- Bookkeeping or tax consultations
These services are optional. You do not need to pay a third-party company to get an EIN because the IRS application is free. The IRS warns that websites charging for an EIN are not charging an IRS fee.
When Is a Paid EIN Service Worth It?
Mainly when the owner has no Social Security number. The IRS online application needs an SSN or ITIN for the responsible party. Without one, you apply by fax or mail with Form SS-4, or by phone from outside the US, which can take weeks. A service handles that paperwork and follows up with the IRS.
Prices checked 29 Oct 2026:
| Service | Price | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| IRS directly | $0 | Online with an SSN or ITIN, or Form SS-4 by fax or mail without one |
| ein.so | $49 standard, $97 express | EIN application preparation and filing |
| ABS | $99 with an SSN, $299 for a foreign owner | EIN filing, with formation packages available |
| EIN National Filing | $272 and up | Non-resident EIN packages |
| Northwest Registered Agent | $200 add-on | Foreign-owner EIN, added to a $39 LLC formation |
These are plain links; we don't earn a commission on them. Several formation services for non-residents include the EIN in their price; compare them in the EIN and ITIN directory or the non-resident formation services.
Is an EIN the Same as an LLC Formation Fee?
No. An EIN is free, while forming an LLC or corporation can cost money.
State filing fees, registered-agent fees and local business license fees are separate from the federal EIN application. If you create an LLC, you may pay your state to file the formation documents. The EIN issued afterward by the IRS still costs $0.
Can an Accountant Get an EIN for You?
Yes. You can authorize an accountant, attorney or another third party to complete the EIN application and receive the number on your behalf. The professional may charge for the service, but that payment covers their time and assistance rather than an IRS EIN fee.
Bottom Line
Use IRS.gov if you only need an EIN. Consider an accountant, attorney or business-formation service if you want help with the application or related services. Any LLC, corporation or local business costs are separate from the free EIN application.