Jake Lawson here. After helping over 1,200 entrepreneurs launch their businesses, I’ve learned that getting an EIN for your Michigan LLC is one of those tasks that sounds complicated but is actually pretty simple—if you follow the right process. The IRS gives these out for free in about 15 minutes online, yet I still see people paying $300+ for “professional EIN services” that do exactly what you can do yourself. Let me show you the right way to get your Michigan LLC’s Federal Tax ID Number.
Your Michigan LLC needs an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for almost everything business-related: opening bank accounts, filing taxes, establishing business credit, applying for licenses. Think of it as your LLC’s Social Security Number with the federal government.
The process is free, standardized across all states, and faster than most people expect—but there are timing issues and scams to avoid. Let me walk you through the entire process.
What Is an EIN and Why Your Michigan LLC Needs One
An EIN is a unique nine-digit number that the IRS assigns to your LLC for tax and identification purposes. It creates a clear separation between your business identity and your personal identity in the federal system.
Also called:
- Federal Tax ID Number
- Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
- Tax Identification Number
Important note: Your EIN comes from the IRS (federal government), not from Michigan LARA (Licensing and Regulatory Affairs). It’s completely separate from any Michigan state tax numbers.
Why Your Michigan LLC Absolutely Needs an EIN
Business Banking: No legitimate bank will open a business account without an EIN. Using personal accounts for business transactions destroys your LLC’s liability protection.
Business Credit: Credit cards, loans, and lines of credit require an EIN to establish credit in your business name rather than personally.
Tax Separation: While single-member LLCs can technically use your SSN, having an EIN keeps business and personal finances clearly separated—critical for liability protection.
Licensing: Most Michigan business licenses and permits require an EIN on applications.
Payroll: Required if you ever hire employees for payroll tax purposes.
Identity Protection: Using your SSN for business purposes increases identity theft risk. Your EIN provides a protective layer.
Critical Timing: When to Apply for Your EIN
Non-negotiable rule: Wait until your Michigan LLC is officially approved before applying for your EIN.
Here’s why timing matters: Your EIN application must exactly match your approved LLC name. If you apply before approval and your name gets rejected or modified, you’ll need to cancel the EIN and reapply—creating unnecessary hassle and potential confusion.
The correct sequence:
- File Michigan Articles of Organization with LARA
- Wait for approval confirmation
- Apply for EIN using your exact approved LLC name
How to Get Your EIN for Free (Step-by-Step)
The IRS provides EINs at no cost. Any service charging you for this is adding markup to something you can do yourself in 15 minutes.
For U.S. Citizens and Residents (With SSN or ITIN)
Step 1: Access the Official IRS Website Go to IRS.gov and search for “Apply for EIN Online.” Make sure you’re on the official .gov site—scam sites use deceptively similar domains.
Step 2: Start the Online Application Click “Apply Online Now” during business hours (7 AM – 10 PM EST, Monday-Friday). You’ll need:
- Your Social Security Number or ITIN
- Your Michigan LLC’s exact legal name (as approved by LARA)
- Your LLC’s principal business address
- Reason for applying (select “Started new business”)
Step 3: Complete Each Section Carefully Take your time with the application. Double-check everything—errors can cause delays or require starting over.
Step 4: Receive Your EIN Instantly Upon completion, you’ll get your EIN immediately.
Critical: Download and save your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) right away. The IRS won’t reissue this document.
Time required: 10-15 minutes
Cost: $0
For Non-U.S. Residents (Without SSN or ITIN)
International entrepreneurs can still get EINs for Michigan LLCs—you just can’t use the online application.
Step 1: Download Form SS-4 Get the paper application from IRS.gov. It contains the same information as the online form.
Step 2: Complete Form SS-4 Fill out all required sections. On line 7b (SSN/ITIN), write “Foreign” if you don’t have either number.
Step 3: Submit by Fax or Mail
- Fax: 855-641-6935 (faster processing, recommended)
- Mail: Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999
Step 4: Wait for Processing Processing takes 1-2 weeks by fax, 4-6 weeks by mail. You’ll receive your EIN Confirmation Letter by mail.
Myth busting: Ignore advice about needing a “third-party designee.” That’s a common scam targeting international business owners. You can handle this yourself.
Common EIN Mistakes That Cost Time and Money
After helping over 1,000 entrepreneurs through this process, these are the mistakes I see most often:
Mistake #1: Applying Before LLC Approval
Jumping the gun and applying before your Michigan LLC is approved can create name mismatches requiring cancellation and reapplication. Patience pays off here.
Mistake #2: Name Inconsistencies
Your EIN application must use the exact LLC name approved by Michigan LARA. “Smith Consulting LLC” and “Smith Consulting, LLC” are different to the IRS, even if Michigan accepts both.
Mistake #3: Wrong Entity Type Selection
When asked about business structure, select “LLC”—not “Corporation” or “Partnership.” This determines how the IRS expects you to file taxes.
Mistake #4: Paying for “Expedited” Services
The free online application is already instant for eligible applicants. Don’t pay $100-$300 for something that’s already fast and free.
Mistake #5: Not Saving the Confirmation Letter
The IRS won’t reissue your original EIN Confirmation Letter. Lose it, and you’ll need to request an EIN Verification Letter (which takes weeks and serves the same purpose).
After Getting Your EIN: Your Next Steps
Open Your Business Bank Account
Your EIN Confirmation Letter is required for business banking. Banks also typically want:
- Copy of your Michigan Articles of Organization
- LLC Operating Agreement (even if not legally required)
- Government-issued photo ID
Michigan banking recommendations:
- Local credit unions: Often provide superior small business service and lower fees
- Regional banks: Good balance of personal service and broader capabilities
- National banks: Convenient for multi-state operations or frequent travel
- Online banks: Excellent for basic banking with minimal fees
Establish Business Credit
With your EIN, start building credit in your business name:
- Apply for business credit cards (start with your business bank)
- Establish trade credit accounts with suppliers
- Build a business credit profile independent of your personal credit
Understand Your Tax Obligations
Your EIN registers your LLC for federal tax purposes. Michigan LLCs follow standard pass-through taxation:
- Single-member LLCs: Report on owner’s personal tax return (Schedule C)
- Multi-member LLCs: File Form 1065 partnership return; profits/losses pass through to members’ personal returns
Michigan-Specific Tax and Business Considerations
State Tax Requirements
Your federal EIN is separate from Michigan state obligations. Depending on your business, you may also need:
- Michigan sales tax license
- Michigan withholding account (for employees)
- Detroit city income tax registration (if operating in Detroit)
- Industry-specific state registrations
Business Licensing in Michigan
Michigan doesn’t require a general business license, but industry-specific licenses often require your EIN on applications. Having it first streamlines the licensing process.
Workers’ Compensation
If you hire employees in Michigan, workers’ compensation insurance is required. Your EIN is needed for coverage applications and premium calculations.
Married Couples: Special Tax Considerations
Michigan is not a community property state, so married couples operating an LLC together are automatically treated as a multi-member LLC (partnership) for federal tax purposes.
This means:
- Must file Form 1065 (partnership return)
- Each spouse receives K-1 showing their share of profits/losses
- Cannot elect “qualified joint venture” status (only available in community property states)
Troubleshooting EIN Problems
Lost Your EIN?
If you lose your EIN Confirmation Letter, request an EIN Verification Letter (Form 147C) from the IRS. It serves the same purpose but takes 2-4 weeks to receive.
Incorrect Information on EIN?
Minor errors might be correctable by calling the IRS. Major errors (like wrong business structure) may require canceling the EIN and applying for a new one.
Applied Before LLC Approval?
If your Michigan LLC gets approved with the exact name you used on the EIN application, you’re fine. If the name changes, cancel the old EIN and apply for a new one.
Red Flags and Scams to Avoid
“Premium EIN Processing” for $200+: The official online application is already instant and free for eligible applicants.
“EIN Renewal Required” Letters: EINs don’t expire. These are scam letters trying to collect unnecessary fees.
Third-Party Services for International Applicants: Non-residents don’t need to pay someone to file Form SS-4. You can do it yourself.
Fake IRS Websites: Always verify you’re on IRS.gov. Scam sites use similar domains to steal information and money.
Your Michigan LLC EIN Action Plan
Step 1: Confirm LLC Approval Verify your Michigan LLC is officially approved by LARA and you have confirmation documentation.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
- Your SSN or ITIN (if you have one)
- Exact LLC name as approved by Michigan
- LLC address and phone number
- Name and SSN of the responsible party
Step 3: Apply Through Correct Channel
- With SSN/ITIN: Use free IRS online application (7 AM – 10 PM EST, weekdays)
- Without SSN/ITIN: Complete and fax Form SS-4
Step 4: Save Your Confirmation Download/receive and securely store your EIN Confirmation Letter.
Step 5: Establish Business Banking and Credit Use your EIN to open business accounts and start building business credit history.
IRS Contact Information (When You Need Human Help)
Phone: 1-800-829-4933
Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Monday-Friday
To reach a live person:
- Press 1 for English
- Press 1 for Employer Identification Numbers
- Press 3 for “If you already have an EIN but can’t remember it”
(Option 3 is the only path to a human representative, regardless of your actual issue)
Pro tip: Call right at 7:00 AM to minimize hold times.
Michigan Business Environment Context
Michigan offers several advantages for LLCs:
- No publication requirement (unlike New York)
- Reasonable filing fees compared to coastal states
- Diverse economy supporting various business types
- Strategic location for manufacturing and logistics
- Growing tech sector particularly in Detroit and Grand Rapids
The state’s economic diversification from traditional manufacturing to technology, healthcare, and services creates opportunities across multiple sectors.
The Bottom Line on Michigan LLC EINs
Getting an EIN for your Michigan LLC is straightforward, free, and essential for legitimate business operations. The key is proper timing (after LLC approval), using official IRS channels, and avoiding the numerous scams targeting new business owners.
Don’t overthink this step, but don’t skip it either. Your EIN is required for virtually every other business activity you’ll need to undertake.
Ready to Get Your Michigan LLC EIN Right?
Need help navigating the EIN application process or guidance on next steps for your Michigan LLC? I’ve walked hundreds of Michigan entrepreneurs through federal requirements and can help you avoid the common pitfalls that delay business launch.
That’s exactly why I built llciyo.com—to provide business owners with practical, tested advice about LLC formation and federal requirements, without the sales pressure or unnecessary complications.
Because getting your EIN should be quick and painless, not a source of stress or unexpected expense.
Jake Lawson has guided over 1,200 entrepreneurs through U.S. business formation, including hundreds of Michigan LLCs. He’s helped clients navigate federal requirements, avoid EIN scams, and establish proper business banking relationships. Independent advice, no affiliate pressure, just the facts about getting your Federal Tax ID Number right.