How to Get an EIN for Amazon FBA (Free, 5 Minutes)
What Is an EIN and Why Do FBA Sellers Need One?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Think of it as your business's Social Security Number.
For Amazon FBA sellers, an EIN is required for:
- Opening a business bank account
- Applying for a DUNS number (business credit)
- Registering for Amazon Seller Central as an LLC
- Filing business taxes
- Applying for business credit cards
- Opening Net-30 vendor accounts
Without an EIN, you're stuck operating as a sole proprietor with your SSN — which means no business credit, no liability protection, and no separation between you and your business.
Who Needs an EIN?
You need an EIN if you:
- Formed an LLC or Corporation
- Hire employees (even one part-time helper)
- File excise, employment, or alcohol/tobacco/firearms tax returns
- Withhold taxes on non-wage income paid to non-resident aliens
- Have a Keogh plan
For single-member LLCs with no employees, the IRS technically allows you to use your SSN. But for business credit building, the EIN is non-negotiable.
How to Get an EIN (Step by Step)
Step 1: Go to the IRS Website
Visit irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online. The online application is free and available Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time.
⚠️ Warning: Only use the official IRS website. Third-party websites charge $50–$100 for something the IRS gives away for free.
Step 2: Select Entity Type
Choose "Limited Liability Company" (or Corporation, if applicable). For single-member LLCs, you'll select "Started a new business" as the reason for applying.
Step 3: Enter Business Information
You'll need:
- Legal name of your LLC (exactly as filed with the state)
- Trade name / DBA (if different from legal name)
- LLC formation state
- Number of LLC members (1 for single-member, 2+ for multi-member)
- Responsible party's name and SSN (that's you, the owner)
Step 4: Answer Application Questions
The IRS asks about:
- Why you're applying ("Started a new business")
- Number of employees (usually 0 for FBA sellers starting out)
- Primary business activity ("Retail trade" or "Internet retail")
- First date wages were paid (if applicable)
Step 5: Receive Your EIN Immediately
After submitting, the IRS generates your EIN instantly. You'll see a confirmation page with your 9-digit number. Save this page as a PDF. The IRS also emails a confirmation letter (CP 575) within 2–4 weeks.
What to Do With Your EIN
| Task | Where to Use EIN |
|---|---|
| Amazon Seller Central | Settings → Account Info → Tax Information → W-9 |
| Business bank account | Bring EIN confirmation letter to bank |
| DUNS number application | dnb.com — required field |
| Business credit cards | Application form — "Federal Tax ID" |
| Net-30 vendors | Credit application — "Tax ID Number" |
| Annual tax filing | Schedule C (disregarded entity) or Form 1065/1120-S |
Common EIN Mistakes
- Using a third-party service: The IRS gives EINs away free. Never pay for one.
- Mismatching the LLC name: Your EIN must match your LLC name exactly as filed with the state. "ABC LLC" and "A.B.C. LLC" are different.
- Losing the confirmation: Save the PDF immediately. Replacing a lost EIN confirmation is a hassle.
- Applying before forming the LLC: The IRS asks for your formation state and date. Form the LLC first, then get the EIN.
- Using a fake SSN: The responsible party must use their real SSN. The IRS verifies this.
EIN for Non-U.S. Sellers
If you're not a U.S. citizen or resident but want to sell on Amazon.com (the U.S. marketplace), you can still get an EIN. The process is slightly different:
- Form a U.S. LLC (usually in Wyoming or Delaware for foreign owners)
- Apply for an EIN by fax or mail using Form SS-4
- On line 7b (SSN/ITIN), write "Foreign" if you don't have one
- The IRS will process your application and mail the EIN within 4–6 weeks
Some formation services (like Northwest Registered Agent) offer EIN acquisition for non-residents as an add-on service.
Can You Have Multiple EINs?
Yes, but each EIN must belong to a separate legal entity. If you have three LLCs (one for FBA, one for Shopify, one for consulting), each gets its own EIN. You cannot use one EIN for multiple LLCs.
However, if you operate multiple Amazon brands under one LLC, you only need one EIN for that LLC.
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Download Free →Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an EIN?
Online: instant. By fax: 4 business days. By mail: 4–6 weeks.
Is an EIN the same as a DUNS number?
No. An EIN is from the IRS for tax purposes. A DUNS number is from Dun & Bradstreet for credit tracking. You need both.
Can I change my EIN later?
No. EINs are permanent. If you need a new one, you must form a new business entity. However, you can update your business name or address with the IRS without changing the EIN.
Do I need an EIN if I'm just testing FBA as a hobby?
Technically no, but we recommend getting one anyway. It's free, takes 5 minutes, and future-proofs your business.
This is informational, not financial advice. Vendor terms, card offers, and bureau reporting policies change, and a general guide can't account for your specific credit history or business situation. Confirm current terms directly with the issuer or vendor before applying. See our editorial policy for how we verify what we publish.