How to Get an EIN Number for a Trust – Fast, Simple Steps
Last Updated on April 7, 2025 by mia
Starting a trust can feel complicated, especially when it comes to getting an EIN (Employer Identification Number).
Without an EIN, a trust can’t legally open a bank account, file taxes, or manage its finances.
Many trust owners aren’t sure where to begin, and that uncertainty can delay important decisions.
Luckily, the process is simpler than you might think. This blog will walk you through the steps of obtaining an EIN for a trust, answer common questions, and clear up confusion.
Whether you’re setting up a new trust or managing an existing one, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
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What Is an EIN?
An EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes, similar to how a Social Security number works for individuals.
It’s sometimes called a Federal Tax ID Number. You’ll need an EIN if you plan to hire employees, open a business bank account, apply for business licenses, or establish a trust.
Without an EIN, handling your business taxes or financial transactions can get complicated quickly.
Think of it as your business’s official ID in the eyes of the government. Whether you’re a small startup or managing a trust, having an EIN can help you keep things organized and legal.
Understanding what an EIN is makes it easier to take the next steps, like learning how to get an EIN number for a trust.
8 Steps to Get an EIN for Your Business or Trust
1. Decide if You Really Need an EIN.
Not all businesses or trusts require an EIN, so it’s a good idea to determine whether your setup qualifies.
If you’re hiring employees, running a partnership, operating as a corporation, or managing a trust, you will need one.
Even sole proprietors might need an EIN for opening a business bank account or filing certain taxes.
Beyond requirements, having an EIN makes your business or trust appear more professional when dealing with banks or vendors.
It also helps separate your personal and business finances, giving you peace of mind.
If you’re unsure, the IRS website has helpful guidelines to check. Remember, taking a moment to confirm will save you time later.
2. Gather All Necessary Information.
Before applying, have all your details ready to avoid delays. You’ll need your business’s legal name, address, and the name of the responsible party (usually the owner or trustee).
If it’s a trust, you’ll also need to include the type of trust and why it was created. Having this information handy ensures a smoother application process.
You won’t be able to save an incomplete application, so take a little time upfront to get organized.
This will make the entire process faster and less stressful. Trust us, being prepared will save you unnecessary back-and-forth.
3. Choose How You Want to Apply.
The IRS offers several ways to apply for an EIN. Most business owners or trustees choose to apply online because it’s the fastest option (you get your EIN immediately).
However, you can also apply by mail, fax, or phone, especially if you’re outside the U.S.
When you apply online, make sure you do it during the IRS’s operating hours or your session may time out.
Mail or fax might take longer, but it still works just fine. Whatever method you choose, make sure you follow the instructions carefully to avoid errors or delays.
4. Visit the IRS Website for Online Applications.
If you decide to apply online, head over to the IRS website and look for the EIN Assistant tool. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.
It starts by asking basic questions about your business or trust type, followed by your personal details as the responsible party.
Keep in mind that only businesses located in the U.S. or U.S. territories can use the online option. If your trust falls into this category, it’s a quick and straightforward application.
Double-check your entries before submitting, as even small typos can cause issues. The online form usually takes less than 15 minutes if you’re prepared.
5. Understand the Deadlines and Processing Times.
Online applications provide instant results, but mail and fax take longer. If you apply by mail, expect processing to take four to six weeks.
For fax, turnaround time is about a week, as long as everything is filled out correctly. Timing matters if your business or trust needs the EIN for an upcoming deadline like tax filing.
Plan ahead to avoid last-minute stress. A little preparation now can save you big headaches down the road. If you need immediate proof, the online method is your best bet.
6. Avoid Common Mistakes That Cause Delays.
The most common application mistakes include entering incorrect information, leaving fields blank, or not signing where required.
Another big mistake is applying for an EIN too soon if your business hasn’t been officially registered yet, because the IRS needs matching records.
Trusts usually run into issues when the trust details don’t align with what’s filed in other legal documents.
Double-check everything before you hit submit or send the application. Small errors can lead to big delays, so take your time filling things out. The smoother your application, the quicker you’ll have your EIN in hand.
7. Save and Store Your EIN Safely.
Once you receive your EIN, keep it in a secure and easily accessible place. You’ll need this number for tasks like opening a bank account, filing taxes, or applying for business credit.
Writing it down in multiple secure places (like a password manager) ensures you won’t lose it. If your trust applies for an EIN, share the number only with authorized people.
Misplacing an EIN can lead to unnecessary hassle, including having to contact the IRS for a replacement.
Taking a moment to store it properly now will save you trouble later. Treat it with the same care as you would handle personal financial information.
8. Know When to Update or Cancel Your EIN.
If your business or trust changes structure, owners, or trustees, you might need a new EIN.
Situations like adding a partner to your company, switching from sole proprietor to corporation, or changing the trust terms could trigger this need.
Make sure to update your records with the IRS to avoid tax or legal issues. If you close your business or dissolve the trust, you should cancel the EIN by contacting the IRS.
Consistently keeping your EIN information up to date keeps your operation smooth and compliant. It’s one of those things that’s easy to forget, but critical to stay on top of.
How Do I Know If My Trust Needs An EIN?
If you’re wondering whether your trust needs an EIN, the answer depends on the type of trust you have and how it operates.
A revocable trust (one you can change during your lifetime) usually doesn’t need an EIN because its income is reported under the grantor’s Social Security Number.
However, if you have an irrevocable trust (one you can’t change after it’s created), it will likely require its own EIN for tax purposes since it’s treated as a separate entity.
Another situation where a trust might need an EIN is if it starts earning income, hires employees, or opens a bank account in its own name.
For those building a startup growth plan, managing trust finances effectively contributes to long-term success and financial stability.
To keep everything on track, you should check with a tax professional or attorney to confirm your specific trust’s needs.
What Documents Do I Need To Apply For An EIN For A Trust?
To apply for an EIN for a trust, you’ll need specific documents to ensure the process goes smoothly.
First, you’ll need the trust’s legal name and formation documents, like the trust agreement, which outlines its purpose and details.
Make sure you have the Social Security Number or Taxpayer Identification Number of the trustee or responsible party, as this is required.
You’ll also need to know the type of trust you’re setting up, whether it’s revocable or irrevocable, since the IRS requires this information.
Application forms, such as IRS Form SS-4, will be necessary to officially request the EIN.
If you’re learning how to get an EIN number for a trust, you can apply online, by fax, or by mail, depending on what’s most convenient.
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By having the required paperwork ready, you can save time and avoid delays in securing the EIN needed for your trust.
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Conclusion
Getting an EIN number for a trust is a straightforward process that can provide many benefits for managing trust finances.
To begin, you’ll need to gather essential details, such as the trust’s name, its type, and the trustee’s information, which will be required during the application.
You can easily apply for an EIN online through the IRS website, by mail, or even by fax.
Having an EIN number helps separate the trust’s finances from personal accounts, ensuring better organization and accountability.
It’s important to complete the application with accuracy because any errors can lead to delays in obtaining your EIN.
If you’re unsure about how to get an EIN number for a trust or need help navigating the process, professional support can save you time and hassle.
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