Comparison Guide
FEIN vs EIN Same Number?
FEIN and EIN both refer to the same 9-digit tax identification number issued by the IRS. The F in FEIN stands for Federal. This guide explains why both terms exist and when each is used.
This is one of the most common sources of confusion in US business tax terminology. When a bank asks for your FEIN and a tax form asks for your EIN, business owners wonder whether they need two different numbers. The answer is simple: you do not. FEIN and EIN are two names for the exact same number.
The confusion exists because the United States has multiple levels of tax identification. The federal government (IRS) issues EINs. State governments issue their own employer identification numbers for state taxes. Adding "Federal" to the front of EIN clarifies that you are referring to the IRS number, not a state-issued number. This guide explains the history, usage, and practical implications of both terms.
The Answer
FEIN = EIN: They Are Identical
Let us state this clearly:
- FEIN = Federal Employer Identification Number
- EIN = Employer Identification Number
- Same number. Same 9 digits. Same IRS. Same format (XX-XXXXXXX).
The IRS created the Employer Identification Number system in 1974. The official IRS term is EIN. The IRS uses EIN on Form SS-4 (the application form), on the CP 575 confirmation letter, on all tax return forms, and in every IRS publication. The IRS does not use the term FEIN anywhere on its website or official documents.
The term FEIN emerged organically in business and accounting to differentiate the federal number from state equivalents. It is informal but widely used. If someone asks for your FEIN, they want the same 9-digit number that the IRS calls your EIN.
All Names for the Same Number
| Term | Full Name | Same Number? | |------|-----------|-------------| | EIN | Employer Identification Number | Yes | | FEIN | Federal Employer Identification Number | Yes | | Federal Tax ID | Federal Tax Identification Number | Yes | | TIN | Taxpayer Identification Number | Umbrella term (includes EIN, SSN, ITIN) | | Federal ID Number | Federal Identification Number | Yes (when referring to business) |
For the complete explanation of all tax ID types, see our guide on EIN vs TIN.
Why Both Terms
Why Do Both Terms Exist?
Reason 1: State vs Federal Distinction
Many states issue their own employer identification numbers for state tax purposes:
| State | State Tax ID Name | Separate from EIN? | |-------|------------------|-------------------| | California | California Employer Account Number | Yes | | New York | NY Employer Registration Number | Yes | | Texas | Texas Taxpayer Number | Yes | | Florida | Florida Reemployment Tax Account | Yes | | Pennsylvania | PA Employer Account Number | Yes |
When an accountant or payroll provider works with both federal and state tax IDs, they use FEIN to specify the federal number and distinguish it from the state number. This prevents errors in payroll tax filings where the wrong number on the wrong form causes penalties.
Reason 2: Historical Usage
The term EIN was established by the IRS in 1974. Accountants and tax professionals began adding "Federal" in front of it during the 1980s as states developed their own tax registration systems. The practice stuck. Today, FEIN appears on thousands of business forms, contracts, and applications despite not being an official IRS term.
Reason 3: Clarity in Multi-State Operations
Businesses operating in multiple states may have:
- 1 EIN (federal, from the IRS)
- 3-5 state employer IDs (one per state where they have employees)
In this context, FEIN eliminates ambiguity. When a multi-state employer receives a payroll document requesting an "employer identification number," FEIN tells them immediately: use the federal one, not a state number.
Where Each Is Used
Where You See EIN vs FEIN
Documents That Say EIN
- IRS Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number)
- IRS Form 1120 (Corporate Tax Return)
- IRS Form 1065 (Partnership Tax Return)
- IRS Form 941 (Quarterly Payroll Tax Return)
- IRS Form W-2 (Employee Wage Statement)
- IRS Form 1099 (Information Return)
- IRS CP 575 (EIN Confirmation Letter)
- IRS Letter 147C (EIN Verification Letter)
Documents That Say FEIN
- Bank account applications
- Business credit applications
- State tax registration forms
- Vendor onboarding forms
- Corporate contracts
- Insurance applications
- SBA loan applications
- Commercial lease agreements
What to Do When Asked for Either
If a form asks for your EIN: Enter your 9-digit IRS number (XX-XXXXXXX).
If a form asks for your FEIN: Enter the same 9-digit IRS number (XX-XXXXXXX).
If a form asks for your Federal Tax ID: Enter the same 9-digit IRS number (XX-XXXXXXX).
They all want the same number. There is zero difference in what you provide.
How to Get
How to Get Your EIN / FEIN
Since FEIN and EIN are the same number, you apply once and receive one number that satisfies both terms.
Determine Your Eligibility
Choose Your Application Method
Receive Your EIN
Non-US residents cannot use the IRS online tool. ein.so handles the Form SS-4 fax process for $49 (Standard, 4-7 business days) or $97 (Express). Apply now.
Do Not Apply Twice
Some business owners mistakenly apply for a "FEIN" after already receiving an "EIN," thinking they are different. They are not. If you already have an EIN, you already have a FEIN. Do not submit a second Form SS-4. The IRS may issue a second number to the same entity, creating unnecessary complexity. If this happens, contact the IRS at 800-829-4933 to close the duplicate.
State Tax IDs
FEIN/EIN vs State Tax IDs
While your FEIN/EIN is a federal number, you may also need state-level tax registrations depending on where you operate. These state numbers are separate from your EIN.
| Requirement | Federal (EIN/FEIN) | State Tax ID | |-------------|-------------------|-------------| | Issuing Authority | IRS | State revenue department | | Purpose | Federal taxes | State taxes (income, sales, payroll) | | Application | Form SS-4 | State-specific forms | | Format | XX-XXXXXXX | Varies by state | | Cost | Free | Usually free | | Required? | Yes (federal) | Depends on state and business activity |
Your EIN does not replace state tax registrations. You need both if you have employees or tax obligations in a state. However, your state tax ID does not replace your EIN for federal purposes.
For more on state requirements, see our guide on state tax IDs. For your specific state, check our EIN by state guides.
Summary
The Bottom Line: FEIN = EIN
- FEIN and EIN are the same 9-digit number from the IRS
- The IRS officially calls it an EIN
- Banks and state forms often call it a FEIN
- You apply once and use the number everywhere
- Format: XX-XXXXXXX (9 digits, hyphen after second digit)
- Cost: $0 from IRS or $49 through ein.so for non-residents
Do not overthink this. If you have one, you have both. If someone asks for your FEIN, give them your EIN. They are the same number.
For more about what an EIN is and how to get one, read our complete guide on what is an EIN. For comparisons with other tax IDs, see EIN vs SSN, EIN vs ITIN, or EIN vs Tax ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FEIN the same as EIN?
Yes. FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number) and EIN (Employer Identification Number) are the same 9-digit tax ID number issued by the IRS. The terms are interchangeable. The IRS officially uses EIN, but many businesses, banks, and state agencies use FEIN.
Why do some forms say FEIN instead of EIN?
Some forms use FEIN to distinguish the federal tax ID from state-level tax IDs. States like California, New York, and Texas issue their own employer identification numbers for state tax purposes. Adding Federal clarifies that FEIN refers to the IRS-issued number, not a state number.
Does the IRS use the term FEIN?
The IRS officially uses the term EIN (Employer Identification Number) on all its forms and publications. The IRS does not use FEIN on Form SS-4, the EIN confirmation letter (CP 575), or any official IRS correspondence. FEIN is used by banks, state agencies, and businesses informally.
How do I get a FEIN/EIN?
Apply through the IRS EIN Assistant online (US residents with SSN/ITIN) for instant issuance. Non-residents submit Form SS-4 by fax to 855-215-1627. Processing takes 4-7 business days. ein.so handles the fax process for non-residents for $49 (Standard) or $97 (Express).
Do I need a separate FEIN and EIN?
No. There is no separate FEIN. If someone asks for your FEIN, give them your EIN. They are the same number. You have one 9-digit number from the IRS that serves as both your EIN and FEIN.
What is the format of a FEIN/EIN?
Both FEIN and EIN use the format XX-XXXXXXX (9 digits with a hyphen after the second digit). For example, 12-3456789. This format is identical regardless of whether the form calls it FEIN or EIN.
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