147c

A 147c Letter, also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN) Verification Letter, is a document issued by the IRS that confirms the EIN (nine-digit number, formatted as XX-XXXXXXX) assigned to a business entity. The letter serves as official proof of the business's EIN and is often required for banking, tax filing, or other legal purposes.

Business owners request this letter when they have misplaced their original EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) or need an updated verification document. The 147c Letter is traditionally requested by contacting the IRS directly and is sent via fax or mail.

Key Facts

• Purpose: The 147c Letter is used to verify a business's EIN for purposes such as opening bank accounts, applying for loans, or ensuring tax compliance.
• How to Obtain:
  • Call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933.
  • Provide verification details, including the business's legal name, address, and previously assigned EIN.
  • Choose to receive the letter via fax or mail.
• Replacement for CP 575: The 147c Letter is issued if the original EIN Confirmation Letter has been lost, misplaced, or never received. Unlike the CP 575, which is only issued once, the 147c Letter can be requested multiple times.
• Not Automatically Sent: A business must actively request a 147c Letter when needed.
• Validity: The letter does not expire and remains valid for verifying the EIN unless the EIN is canceled or invalidated by the IRS.

1. What is the difference between a 147c Letter and a CP 575?

The CP 575 is the original EIN Confirmation Letter issued by the IRS when an EIN is first assigned. A 147c Letter is a subsequent EIN Verification Letter issued upon request if the CP 575 is lost or unavailable.

2. How quickly can I get a 147c Letter?

If you request the 147c Letter via fax, you can receive it almost immediately during the call. If you request it by mail, it typically takes 7-10 business days.

3. Can I request a 147c Letter Online?

No, you must call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 to request a 147c Letter. Online requests are not available for this document.

4. What information do I need to request a 147c Letter?

You will need the legal business name, the EIN, the business address, and verification information, such as your Social Security Number (SNN) if you are the responsible party.

5. Why might I need a 147c Letter?

You may need a 147c Letter for various reasons, including:

• To verify your EIN for a financial institution.
• To comply with tax-related requests.
• To confirm your EIN when completing government or business paperwork.