Key Takeaways

  • A Maryland EIN is the same as a federal EIN issued by the IRS.
  • Businesses in Maryland need an EIN for tax filing, hiring, banking, and permits.
  • You must provide specific business information to apply.
  • SDAT assigns a separate entity ID for state tracking purposes.
  • Maryland requires a tax ID even for sole proprietors in some cases.
  • You can apply online, by mail, fax, or phone — free of charge.
  • If your EIN is lost, it can be retrieved through your bank or the IRS.

A state of Maryland EIN, or employer identification number, is used by state tax authorities to identify your business. This is the same as your federal EIN from the IRS. This number allows you to establish bank accounts, apply for credit, and otherwise administer your business finances. It's also used to hire staff, purchase inventory, and file taxes. If your company has several separate business operations, each will need its own EIN.

Do I Need a Maryland EIN?

Many businesses find they thrive in Maryland because of the more affluent residents who are willing to spend money on products and services. If your company is based in Maryland, you will need to register for a tax identification number if your business:

  • Has employees
  • Is an estate, trust, or non-profit organization
  • Was established as a partnership or corporation
  • Is responsible for paying excise, alcohol, firearms, tobacco, or employment taxes

Even if your business does not fall into one of these categories, however, you may want to establish a Maryland EIN so that you can use it instead of your Social Security number to obtain business licenses and permits, open bank accounts, and apply for business credit.

When Sole Proprietors and Single-Member LLCs Need a Maryland EIN

While sole proprietors and single-member LLCs are not always legally required to obtain an EIN, there are situations where it becomes necessary. You will need an EIN if your Maryland business:

  • Plans to hire employees, even temporarily.
  • Needs to open a business bank account that doesn’t use your SSN.
  • Applies for a Maryland sales tax license.
  • Changes its ownership structure (e.g., from sole proprietor to LLC or partnership).
  • Is subject to federal excise taxes (alcohol, tobacco, firearms).
  • Wants to maintain privacy by using an EIN instead of a personal SSN on public forms.

Obtaining an EIN can also streamline interactions with state agencies, lenders, and vendors.

How Do I Obtain a Maryland EIN?

The EIN application form is available on the IRS website. You can also download a copy of the form so you can print it and then mail or fax it in, or you can opt to apply by phone. No fee is charged to register for an EIN.

To apply for a tax ID in Maryland, you'll need to provide the following:

  • The official legal name of your business as written in your formation paperwork
  • The name of the party responsible for filing taxes on behalf of your business
  • The physical address of the business (not a PO box)
  • The contact phone number and email address for your business
  • Your valid Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number
  • The type of business entity

After you complete the application, if it is approved, you will receive your EIN via email. This unique identifier is a nine-digit number.

Although you receive the EIN immediately upon approval, you must wait two weeks before using the number for an electronic tax filing or payment. This waiting period allows the IRS to add the number to their official computer system.

Maryland Business Express and EIN Guidance

The Maryland Business Express portal provides guidance on how to obtain an EIN from the IRS. Though Maryland does not issue its own EIN, the state requires you to register your business with an EIN once received.

To apply directly:

  1. Visit the IRS website’s EIN application portal.
  2. Submit the online application during business hours (Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST).
  3. Receive your EIN immediately if applying online.
  4. Use your EIN to complete additional state-level filings in Maryland, such as sales tax registration or unemployment insurance accounts.

If you do not apply online, mailed and faxed applications may take up to four weeks to process.

What Is the SDAT Entity ID Number?

The State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT) assigns each business organized in Maryland an entity ID number. This starts with a W and is different from the EIN, which is a federal number assigned by the IRS. While the entity ID number is used for tracking, it's not considered an official tax ID.

How Do I Obtain a Business's EIN?

If you have a legitimate reason to request a company's EIN, you can do so by writing, calling, or emailing them directly. However, they may refuse if you don't have the approval to receive this information.

Are Business EINs Public in Maryland?

Business EINs are not typically public information. However, the SDAT’s business database provides public access to Maryland business registration details, including the business name, entity ID, and status — but not the EIN itself.

If you require a business's EIN for a legitimate purpose, such as issuing a 1099 form or verifying vendor information, you should:

  • Contact the business directly and request it.
  • Check W-9 forms or other documents they’ve provided.
  • If necessary, consult the IRS with the proper authorization or use a third-party verification service.

What if I Lose My Business EIN?

Your business will have the same EIN until it closes or reorganizes and applies for a new EIN. When you first receive your number, save the notice so that you can refer to it later. If you no longer have this paperwork, you can check to see if your bank or credit union has your business EIN on file. You can also call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line and a representative will provide the number after confirming your identity through a series of questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a Maryland EIN different from a federal EIN?No. Maryland businesses use the same federal EIN issued by the IRS for both state and federal filings.

2. Can I get a Maryland EIN online?Yes. You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website and use it immediately for Maryland business purposes, except for e-filing taxes, which requires a two-week wait.

3. What’s the difference between a Maryland Entity ID and an EIN?A Maryland Entity ID (issued by SDAT) is used to track your business at the state level. It starts with a "W" and is not a tax ID, whereas the EIN is used for federal tax identification.

4. Do I need an EIN if I’m self-employed in Maryland?You may not need one if you’re a sole proprietor with no employees, but it’s highly recommended if you plan to scale your business, open accounts, or separate personal and business finances.

5. How long does it take to get an EIN?If you apply online, you receive it immediately upon approval. Faxed or mailed applications can take several business days to weeks, depending on processing times.

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