SS-4 form template

Free SS-4 form template

Before you can hire a team or file business taxes, you’ll need to complete the SS-4. The SS-4 form is your official application to the IRS for getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN) which is basically like a Social Security Number for your business. And that’s why it’s also called the Application for Employer Identification Number. The form gathers the basic info about your company, like its name, address, and structure. Getting an EIN is a must-do for most businesses to legally operate, and the SS-4 is the form that gets it done.

Docusign makes tackling this government form simple. Our free, fillable SS-4 template, you can quickly enter all the required information in a clean, professional format. Once you're done, you can download, print, or use Docusign to securely sign and store a copy for your records before submitting it. Ready to start, click on the sample SS-4 below: 

To get your business officially on the map, applying for an EIN with the SS-4 form is a prerequisite. And with Docusign, you can easily prepare and store a secure record of your completed EIN application, ensuring your business is ready for tax season as you don’t want any misunderstandings with the IRS.

Take the first step towards official business status by getting started with a free Docusign account.

What is a Form SS-4?

Form SS-4, also known as the Application for Employer Identification Number (EIN), is an IRS form that businesses use to apply for a unique nine-digit EIN. This number identifies a business entity for federal tax purposes, much like a Social Security number identifies an individual. Obtaining an EIN is essential for reporting taxes, opening business bank accounts, hiring employees, and conducting other official business activities.

Form SS-4 collects details about your business, including legal structure, ownership, mailing address, and the reason for requesting an EIN. Once approved, the EIN enables the IRS to track tax obligations and ensures proper reporting of income, employment taxes, and other business-related filings.

Who is required to file Form SS-4?

Most businesses, including corporations, partnerships, LLCs, and sole proprietors, need to file Form SS-4 to obtain an EIN. You generally need to apply for an EIN if:

• You plan to hire employees

• You operate as a corporation or partnership

• You need to open a business bank account or apply for certain licenses

• You are required to file any federal tax returns, such as employment, excise, or alcohol, tobacco, and firearms taxes

Some individuals, such as sole proprietors with no employees or certain trusts and estates, may not need an EIN. For full guidance, consult the IRS instructions for Form SS-4.

How does Form SS-4 with electronic submission work?

Businesses can apply for an EIN electronically through the IRS website or through authorized third-party providers. Electronic submission allows for faster processing, instant EIN assignment for most applicants, and reduced errors.

Approved systems ensure that:

• All required fields are completed accurately

• The responsible party is properly identified

• Any required declarations are included

• A confirmation of EIN assignment can be generated and stored

While Docusign can be used to collect and manage signed business authorization forms, the actual submission of Form SS-4 must be done directly through IRS-approved electronic channels.