With so many businesses starting up across the country, the process of understanding tax regulations and filings can become exponentially difficult. Many businesses are required to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to process their business’ taxes. Whether your business is located in Dallas or beyond, obtaining an EIN is an important step in starting your business and one that you should take seriously. To ensure that you are up to date with local regulations, it’s important to find counsel that understand the nuance of the Dallas area and be well equipped in delivering a personalized customer experience throughout the entire process.

What is an EIN?

The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit number uniquely assigned to a business entity for tax filing purposes. Much like a Social Security number, it is used for employers to report financial statements to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). EINs are required for most business activities, including filing taxes, opening business bank accounts, and hiring employees. Obtaining an EIN should be a priority for any business, regardless of size. The importance of having an EIN number will impact the business’s ability to obtain necessary capital, hire the necessary workforce, and receive necessary visas and permits.

Why is an EIN so important?

Securing an EIN is an essential step for any business and something that should be done as soon as possible within the startup stages. With an EIN, businesses can open business bank accounts, easily apply for loans, and track expenses to prepare for tax season. An EIN is also a useful tool that provides convenience when sending payments to vendors and filing taxes quarterly, and even more importantly, when paying employee taxes. In addition to convenience, having an EIN can provide credibility to a business; vendors and potential creditors may be more willing to do business with your company knowing that you are a legitimate business entity and not just an individual.

Who should apply for an EIN?

If you are starting a business or own an existing business, you should apply for an EIN. An EIN is required if your business has employees, operates as a corporation or partnership, is involved in any type of trust, or if the business plans to establish a Keogh (profit sharing) plan. It’s also possible to obtain multiple EINs for different businesses owned by the same respective entity.

Can I apply for an EIN online?

The IRS allows businesses to apply for an EIN online and have the number assigned immediately. There is no charge for the EIN, regardless of how it is applied for. The entire process can be completed in one sitting, with no additional forms to fill out or accounts to create. All you need to do is simply answer the IRS’s questions, verify your identity, and submit any additional documents they may request.

Getting an EIN in Dallas

If you are based in Dallas and searching for counsel that understand the local regulations and can support you throughout the process of obtaining an EIN, consider UpCounsel. Their network of experienced lawyers can provide you with one-time consults or even entire freelance legal departments to ensure your business is meeting all tax requirements. With UpCounsel, you have access to highly-qualified attorneys who have an average of 14 years of experience and have client ratings and reviews of prior work.

Whether you are just getting your business started or expanding your existing business, having a reliable source that understands local regulations is essential. With UpCounsel, you can have the assurance that you are making the right decisions for your business, whether the goal is to obtain an EIN or gain an understanding of other laws.

Topics:

EIN,

tax filing,

Dallas EIN