Jake Lawson here. After helping over 1,200 entrepreneurs launch their businesses, I’ve learned that getting an EIN for your Virginia LLC is one of those tasks that seems more intimidating than it actually is. The IRS provides these for free in about 15 minutes online, yet I still see people paying $250+ for “professional EIN acquisition services” that do exactly what you can do yourself. Let me show you the right way to get your Virginia LLC’s Federal Tax ID Number without the unnecessary fees or complications.
Your Virginia LLC needs an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for virtually every legitimate business activity: 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 quicker than most people expect—but there are timing considerations and scams to avoid. Let me walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is an EIN and Why Your Virginia LLC Needs One
An EIN is a unique nine-digit identifier that the IRS assigns to your LLC for tax and identification purposes. It creates a clear distinction between your business identity and your personal identity in the federal system.
Also known as:
- Federal Tax ID Number
- Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
- Tax Identification Number
Important clarification: Your EIN comes from the IRS (federal government), not from the Virginia State Corporation Commission. It’s completely separate from any Virginia state tax numbers or registrations.
Why Your Virginia LLC Must Have 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—essential for maintaining liability protection.
Licensing: Most Virginia business licenses and permits require an EIN on applications.
Payroll: Required if you ever hire employees for payroll tax and employment commission registration.
Identity Protection: Using your SSN for business purposes increases identity theft risk. Your EIN provides a protective buffer.
Critical Timing: When to Apply for Your EIN
Golden rule: Wait until your Virginia LLC is officially approved before applying for your EIN.
Here’s why timing is crucial: 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 complications and potential confusion with the IRS.
The correct sequence:
- File Virginia Articles of Organization with the State Corporation Commission
- Wait for approval confirmation
- Apply for EIN using your exact approved LLC name
How to Get Your EIN for Free (The Complete Process)
The IRS provides EINs at no cost. Any service charging you for this is adding markup to something you can accomplish 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.” Verify 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 Virginia LLC’s exact legal name (as approved by the State Corporation Commission)
- Your LLC’s principal business address
- Reason for applying (select “Started new business”)
Step 3: Complete Each Section Methodically Take your time with the application. Double-check everything—errors can cause delays or require cancellation and reapplication.
Step 4: Receive Your EIN Immediately Upon completion, you’ll get your EIN instantly.
Critical step: Download and save your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) immediately. The IRS cannot reissue this document.
Time required: 10-15 minutes
Cost: $0
For Non-U.S. Residents (Without SSN or ITIN)
International entrepreneurs can still obtain EINs for Virginia 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.
Important note: 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 Waste Time and Money
After guiding over 1,000 entrepreneurs through this process, these are the mistakes I see repeatedly:
Mistake #1: Applying Before LLC Approval
Jumping ahead and applying before your Virginia LLC is approved can create name mismatches requiring cancellation and reapplication. Patience saves time here.
Mistake #2: Name Inconsistencies
Your EIN application must use the exact LLC name approved by Virginia’s State Corporation Commission. “Smith Consulting LLC” and “Smith Consulting, LLC” are different to the IRS, even if Virginia accepts both variations.
Mistake #3: Wrong Entity Classification
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 “Fast-Track” 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 Preserving 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: Essential Next Steps
Open Your Business Bank Account
Your EIN Confirmation Letter is required for business banking. Banks also typically want:
- Copy of your Virginia Articles of Organization
- LLC Operating Agreement (even if not legally required)
- Government-issued photo ID
Virginia banking recommendations:
- Local community banks: Often provide superior small business service and relationships
- Credit unions: Frequently offer lower fees and better rates for small businesses
- Regional banks: Good balance of personal service and broader capabilities
- National banks: Convenient for multi-state operations or frequent travel
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. Virginia 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
Virginia-Specific Tax and Business Considerations
State Tax Requirements
Your federal EIN is separate from Virginia state obligations. Depending on your business, you may also need:
- Virginia sales tax registration
- Virginia withholding account (for employees)
- Virginia Employment Commission registration (if hiring employees)
- Industry-specific state registrations
Business Licensing in Virginia
Virginia 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 Virginia, workers’ compensation insurance may be required depending on your industry and number of employees. Your EIN is needed for coverage applications.
Married Couples: Special Tax Considerations
Virginia 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 Virginia 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.
Confusion About Virginia vs. Federal Numbers
Some people get confused about “Virginia EINs.” There’s no such thing—EINs only come from the IRS. Virginia may assign you a state tax account number, but that’s separate from your federal EIN.
Red Flags and Scams to Avoid
“Express 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 Virginia LLC EIN Action Plan
Step 1: Confirm LLC Approval Verify your Virginia LLC is officially approved by the State Corporation Commission and you have confirmation documentation.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
- Your SSN or ITIN (if you have one)
- Exact LLC name as approved by Virginia
- LLC address and phone number
- Name and SSN of the responsible party
Step 3: Apply Through Appropriate 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.
Virginia Business Environment Context
Virginia offers excellent advantages for LLCs:
- No publication requirement (unlike New York)
- Business-friendly regulations across most industries
- Strategic location near DC and major East Coast markets
- Diverse economy supporting tech, government contracting, agriculture, and services
- Strong infrastructure for both traditional and modern businesses
The state’s proximity to the federal government creates unique opportunities for government contracting and related services, while areas like Northern Virginia (DC suburbs) offer access to major markets and talent pools.
The Bottom Line on Virginia LLC EINs
Getting an EIN for your Virginia 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 Virginia LLC EIN Right?
Need help navigating the EIN application process or guidance on next steps for your Virginia LLC? I’ve walked hundreds of Virginia 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 Virginia 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.