In this article, we’ll explain the EIN reference number 101 and how to solve it so you can obtain your EIN and start opening bank accounts.
Of course, you can also access our other free resources related to US LLCs, ranging from how to request an EIN verification letter 147c to opening business bank accounts remotely.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
- EIN Reference Number 101
- Where Can I Find My EIN Reference Number?
- EIN Application Process
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Ready to Open Accounts With Banks in the USA?
EIN Reference Number 101
EIN reference number 101 refers to a naming conflict. This can occur when the IRS finds another company with the same name from another state, a company with a very similar name, a typo in the name provided, or when an EIN has already been issued to the primary agent.
In order to resolve this problem, applicants will need to submit form SS-4 for manual review by IRS agents. When submitting form SS-4 for manual review on behalf of your US LLC, the following should be included:
- Completed Form SS-4
- Articles of Organization
- Certification of Formation
It’s important to note that the timeline for submitting forms and how long it takes to get an EIN reference number 101 depends on several factors, which you can learn more about by clicking this link here.
That said, to a large extent this problem can be avoided if the entity is given a unique name from the outset. Though even with a unique name, it’s still possible that it has already been used elsewhere.
You see, while the company name chosen was not used in your state of registration (otherwise it would not have been available to you), it is still possible that the name is in use in another state. When this occurs, EIN reference number 101 is triggered.
Not surprisingly, if you encounter EIN reference number 101, you will face delays in obtaining an EIN for your business as you wait for the manual review to complete. As a result, you will need to wait before you can apply for bank accounts, and credit cards, or hire local employees.
Another important step to understand when registering a business is the state’s company address requirements, specifically which states allow a business without a physical presence.
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Where Can I Find My EIN Reference Number?
If you are trying to find an already issued Employer Identification Number (EIN), you will need to contact the IRS directly through their Business & Speciality Tax Line. There, an IRS assistor will guide you through the process of retrieving your EIN.
Of course, the assistor will ask identifying questions in order to confirm that you are authorized to receive the EIN on behalf of your company.
Can I Check the Status of My EIN Number?
Yes, you can check the status of your EIN number by contacting the IRS directly. To do so, you will need to call the IRS as there are no options available for online status updates.
EIN Application Process
There are four available methods to complete the EIN application process, which include online, fax, mail, and phone. International applicants are required to submit their applications over the phone. The person calling must be an authorized representative of the company. Additionally, it’s important to note that online applications are only available to entities located in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are two of the most common questions that we receive from people looking into an EIN reference number. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
What Does EIN Reference Number 101 Mean?
EIN reference number 101 could mean that the name of your entity is the same or too similar to another US entity. Alternatively, it could also mean that the name provided has an error or that the primary agent already had an EIN issued.
Why Would the IRS Deny an EIN Number?
The IRS would deny an EIN number if the entity applying has already been issued an EIN. Alternatively, an EIN may also be rejected if the responsible party is on a previously approved online application.
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