Jake Lawson here. After helping over 1,200 entrepreneurs launch their businesses, I’ve learned that getting an EIN for your Washington 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 $500+ for “premium EIN services” that do exactly what you can do yourself. Let me show you the right way to get your Washington LLC’s Federal Tax ID Number without the unnecessary fees or complications.
Your Washington 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 faster than most people expect—but there are timing considerations and common scams to avoid. Plus, Washington has some unique advantages for married couples that I’ll explain.
What Is an EIN and Why Your Washington 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 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 distinction: Your EIN comes from the IRS (federal government), not from the Washington Secretary of State. It’s completely separate from any Washington state tax numbers or registrations.
Why Your Washington 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 Washington 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
Golden rule: Wait until your Washington 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 Washington Certificate of Formation with the Secretary of State
- Wait for approval confirmation
- Apply for EIN using your exact approved LLC name
How to Get Your EIN for Free (Complete Step-by-Step 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.” 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 Washington LLC’s exact legal name (as approved by the Secretary of State)
- 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 Instantly Upon completion, you’ll get your EIN immediately.
Critical step: Download and save your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) right away. 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 Washington 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 Cost Time and Money
After guiding over 1,000 entrepreneurs through this process, these are the mistakes I see most often:
Mistake #1: Applying Before LLC Approval
Jumping ahead and applying before your Washington 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 Washington’s Secretary of State. “Smith Consulting LLC” and “Smith Consulting, LLC” are different to the IRS, even if Washington 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 “Premium” Services
The free online application is already instant for eligible applicants. Don’t pay $100-$500 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 Washington Certificate of Formation
- LLC Operating Agreement (even if not legally required)
- Government-issued photo ID
Washington banking recommendations:
- Local credit unions: Often provide superior small business service and lower fees
- Regional banks: Good for Pacific Northwest business needs
- National banks: Convenient for multi-state operations or tech companies
- Online banks: Popular with Washington tech entrepreneurs for 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. Washington 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
Washington-Specific Tax and Business Considerations
State Tax Requirements
Your federal EIN is separate from Washington state obligations. Depending on your business, you may also need:
- Washington Business & Occupation (B&O) tax registration
- Washington sales tax permit
- Washington withholding account (for employees)
- Industry-specific state registrations
Important note: Washington has no state income tax, but the B&O tax applies to gross receipts for most businesses.
Business Licensing in Washington
Washington doesn’t require a general business license at the state level, but many local jurisdictions and specific industries do. Your EIN is typically required on license applications, so having it first streamlines the process.
Workers’ Compensation
If you hire employees in Washington, workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory. Your EIN is needed for coverage applications and premium calculations.
Washington’s Community Property Advantage for Married Couples
Here’s where Washington offers a unique advantage: Washington is a community property state. This gives married couples (including same-sex couples) operating an LLC together special tax options not available in most states.
Married couples in Washington can choose between:
- Multi-member LLC (Partnership): File Form 1065; each spouse gets K-1
- Single-member LLC (Qualified Joint Venture): Report on joint personal tax return; simpler filing
This choice matters because:
- Partnership filing is more complex but offers more tax planning options
- Qualified Joint Venture is simpler but has limitations on business activities
- Your EIN application determines which option you’re selecting
Important clarification: This applies to all legally married couples in Washington, regardless of gender. Washington state law recognizes same-sex marriage, and the IRS treats these marriages the same as opposite-sex marriages for tax purposes.
Strategic consideration: Most tax professionals recommend the Partnership option for greater flexibility, but consult with a Washington tax advisor for your specific situation.
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 Washington 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
“Express EIN Processing” for $400+: 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.
Formation Service EIN Fees: Some LLC formation services charge $50-$100 for EIN services that you can get free directly from the IRS.
Your Washington LLC EIN Action Plan
Step 1: Confirm LLC Approval Verify your Washington LLC is officially approved by the Secretary of State and you have confirmation documentation.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
- Your SSN or ITIN (if you have one)
- Exact LLC name as approved by Washington
- 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 EST (4:00 AM – 4:00 PM PST), 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 4:00 AM PST (7:00 AM EST) to minimize hold times.
Washington Business Environment Context
Washington offers excellent advantages for LLCs:
- No state income tax for individuals or LLCs
- Thriving tech ecosystem particularly in Seattle and Bellevue
- Community property state advantages for married couples
- Strong economy across technology, aerospace, agriculture, and trade
- Access to international markets through Pacific Rim trade
The state’s combination of no income tax, tech-friendly environment, and strategic location makes it attractive for various business types, from startups to established companies.
The Bottom Line on Washington LLC EINs
Getting an EIN for your Washington 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.
Washington’s community property status and lack of state income tax provide unique advantages that aren’t available in most states—make sure you understand these benefits when planning your business structure.
Ready to Get Your Washington LLC EIN Right?
Need help navigating the EIN application process or guidance on Washington’s unique tax advantages for married couples? I’ve walked hundreds of Washington 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, including state-specific advantages like Washington’s community property benefits and tax structure.
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 Washington LLCs. He’s helped clients navigate federal requirements, understand community property advantages, and establish proper business banking relationships. Independent advice, no affiliate pressure, just the facts about getting your Federal Tax ID Number right.