FAQ pages are short editorial summaries of the longer state and tax guides. Use the linked state agency before filing or relying on a deadline.
How to Get an EIN for Your North Carolina LLC
Q: How do I get an EIN for my North Carolina LLC?
A: Apply directly to the IRS, not North Carolina. After filing your Articles of Organization with the NC Secretary of State under N.C.G.S. § 57D-2-20, apply for an EIN through the IRS at irs.gov or call 1-800-829-4933. The IRS issues EINs immediately upon approval online. You need an EIN to hire employees, open a business bank account, and file federal taxes.
Step 1: Form Your LLC in North Carolina
File your Articles of Organization with the North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division. The filing fee is $125.00 for standard processing (10–15 business days). File online at https://www.sosnc.gov/online_filing/filing/creation for faster service.
Your Articles must include:
- LLC name with required designator (LLC, L.L.C., or Limited Liability Company)
- Registered office address in North Carolina
- Registered agent name and address
- Organizer information
Once approved, you'll receive a filing confirmation proving your LLC exists.
Step 2: Apply for Your EIN
After formation is complete, apply for an EIN using IRS Form SS-4. You have three options:
Online (fastest): Visit irs.gov/ein. Your EIN appears on screen immediately.
Phone: Call 1-800-829-4933 (Monday–Friday, business hours). An IRS representative issues your number verbally.
Mail/Fax: Submit Form SS-4 to the IRS. Allow 4 weeks for processing.
You'll need your LLC's legal name, principal business address, North Carolina formation date, and registered agent information. The IRS charges no fee.
Key Points
Single-member LLCs: You can use your Social Security Number instead of an EIN if you have no employees. However, most banks require an EIN to open a business account.
Timing: Don't apply for an EIN until your Articles of Organization are filed and approved by North Carolina. The IRS verifies your entity exists before issuing a number.
Registered agent requirement: Your LLC must have a registered agent and registered office address in North Carolina (N.C.G.S. § 57D-2-20). Ensure these details are correct before filing.
DBA consideration: If you operate under a name different from your registered LLC name, file a DBA with your county Register of Deeds and the NC Secretary of State separately.
Contact: NC Secretary of State, Business Registration Division: (919) 814-5400 or https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/business_registration
This is general information, not legal advice.