If you’re starting or managing a nonprofit, one of the first steps in your compliance journey is getting an EIN for nonprofits. Also known as an Employer Identification Number, this unique tax ID is required for everything from opening a bank account to filing your annual Form 990.
In this guide, we’ll explain what an EIN number for a nonprofit is, why you need it, how to apply for an EIN for nonprofit organizations, and how to keep it secure once you have it.
TL;DR
- No EIN, no operations. Without an EIN, nonprofits can’t open bank accounts, apply for tax exemption, hire staff, or receive grants, making it a hard stop for legitimacy.
- Most nonprofits underestimate how early they need an EIN. You’ll need it before filing for 501(c) status, opening financial accounts, or processing donations, delays here stall your entire launch timeline.
- Volunteer-run nonprofits still need an EIN. Even without employees, the IRS requires an EIN for filings, banking, and compliance, a common misconception that causes startup delays.
- Using the wrong EIN can trigger compliance and banking issues. Inconsistent EIN records across filings, payment processors, and accounts can lead to rejected forms, frozen funds, and audit red flags.
- Applying online is the fastest path, but mistakes are permanent. EINs are issued instantly online, but errors in legal name or structure can create long-term compliance complications.
- An EIN is permanent, even if your nonprofit becomes inactive. The IRS never reissues EINs, making accurate setup and recordkeeping critical from day one.
- Your EIN is the backbone of financial separation. It ensures organizational funds stay legally distinct from personal accounts, a key safeguard against liability and compliance risk.
- EIN setup errors compound as nonprofits scale. What starts as a minor setup issue can evolve into multi-entity reporting problems, grant delays, and reconciliation challenges.
What Is an EIN for Nonprofits?
An EIN for nonprofits is a nine-digit number (formatted as XX-XXXXXXX) issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify your organization for tax and legal purposes.
Even though “EIN” stands for Employer Identification Number, it applies to all organizations—whether or not they have employees. Your EIN for a nonprofit is unique and will never be assigned to another business or charity.
Why Your Nonprofit Needs an EIN
Whether you’re running a local community charity or a large multi-chapter nonprofit, you will need an EIN for:
- Incorporating your nonprofit with your state
- Opening a bank account for your organization
- Applying for 501(c) tax-exempt status
- Filing annual IRS returns like Form 990, Form 990-EZ, or Form 990-N
- Applying for grants and major donations
- Hiring employees and running payroll
You must get an EIN for your nonprofit if:
- Your organization has employees
- You operate as a corporation or partnership, even without employees
- You are a trust, estate, or any recognized type of nonprofit organization
Before You Apply for an EIN
Incorporate Your Nonprofit
The IRS will require you to have a formal legal structure before applying for an EIN. This means:
- Drafting and approving your bylaws
- Filing Articles of Incorporation (or equivalent) with your state
- Paying the required state filing fees
Only after incorporation should you proceed with getting an EIN for your nonprofit organization.
Tip: Crowded offers end-to-end incorporation services for nonprofits so you can handle both steps efficiently.
How to Apply for an EIN for Nonprofits in 2025
Getting an EIN for a nonprofit is free when you apply directly with the IRS. You can apply online, by fax, or by mail.
Method 1: Apply for an EIN Number for a Nonprofit Online (Fastest Option)
The IRS online EIN application is the quickest and most common method. Here’s how to get an EIN number for a nonprofit online:
- Choose your entity type
- Select “View Additional Types” and find the nonprofit category that applies to you (charity, church, social club, etc.).
- Pick your reason for applying
- For most nonprofits, this will be “Starting a new business/organization.”
- Enter required details
- This includes your nonprofit’s legal name, mailing address, and responsible party information.
Pro tips:
- Have all information ready before you start—the IRS system times out after 15 minutes.
- You’ll receive your EIN immediately after submitting the online form.
Method 2: Filing for an EIN for a Nonprofit by Fax or Mail
If you prefer a paper process, you’ll need to complete Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number).
- By fax: Send your completed form to the IRS fax number for your location. Expect your EIN within 4 business days.
- By mail: Mail your completed form to:
IRS EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Processing time is 4 weeks by mail.
IRS Fax Numbers:
- U.S. states/DC: 855-641-6935
- U.S. territories: 855-215-1627
- Outside U.S.: 304-707-9471
Best Practices for Managing Your EIN
- Store your EIN confirmation document securely—many nonprofits lose it during leadership transitions.
- Use your EIN consistently across all tax filings and bank documents.
- Keep a digital backup in a secure cloud folder accessible to authorized officers.
After You Get an EIN for Your Nonprofit
- Apply for Tax-Exempt Status- Once you receive your EIN, the next step is applying for the correct 501(c) classification:
- 501(c)(3) charitable organizations → File Form 1023
- Other nonprofit types (e.g., 501(c)(4), 501(c)(6)) → File Form 1024
- Your EIN must be included in these applications.
- Open a Nonprofit Bank Account
- Banks require your EIN before opening an account for your organization. This is also necessary for nonprofit credit cards, loans, and payment processing accounts.
Crowded’s EIN and Incorporation Services
Crowded is a solution specifically designed for nonprofit groups that simplifies the management of your organization’s finances. Furthermore, Crowded provides free bank accounts* with affordable fees.
Once you have your EIN and are incorporated, you can sign up for a Crowded account that includes digital banking* and tools for online payment collection, expense management, unlimited digital debit cards, and much more. Our focus is on nonprofit membership clubs, and we provide unique benefits while minimizing overall costs.
 | LegalZoom | MyCorporation | NorthWest | Bizee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EIN | $20 | $79 | $79 | $50 | $199 |
Incorporation | $95 | $224 | $257 | $179 | $79 |
Registered agent fee | Free | $249 | $120 | $125 | $119 |
Total | $115 | $552 | $456 | $354 | $397 |
Final Thoughts: Setting Your Nonprofit Up for Success
Securing an EIN for your nonprofit is more than just a legal requirement—it’s the foundation for every financial, operational, and compliance step your organization will take. From opening bank accounts to securing multi-million-dollar grants, your EIN is the key to building credibility with donors, funders, and regulatory bodies. By getting it right from the start and pairing it with strong financial management tools like Crowded, you can protect your organization’s assets, streamline operations, and focus on what truly matters—advancing your mission.
Your questions, answered.
Can a nonprofit operate without an EIN?
No. Even small, volunteer-run nonprofits need an EIN to open a bank account, apply for grants, and meet IRS filing requirements. Operating without one can create compliance issues and limit your ability to receive funds.
Is an EIN the same as a tax-exempt number?
No. Your EIN for a nonprofit is a federal tax ID assigned by the IRS, while tax-exempt status is a designation you earn after filing Form 1023 or 1024. You need an EIN before you can apply for tax-exempt status.
Does an EIN expire if my nonprofit is inactive?
An EIN never expires. However, if your nonprofit stops filing required IRS forms (like Form 990), the IRS may revoke your tax-exempt status, even though the EIN itself remains active.
Can I use the same EIN if my nonprofit changes its name or mission?
In most cases, yes. You’ll need to notify the IRS of the changes, but you won’t be assigned a new EIN unless your organization undergoes a structural change (like merging or forming a new legal entity).
Do international nonprofits operating in the U.S. need an EIN?
Yes. Any nonprofit conducting activities in the U.S., receiving U.S.-based donations, or opening a U.S. bank account must have an EIN, even if the organization is incorporated abroad.
