Question & Answer

Question: Our new accounts personnel use the Social Security Number Verification Book when opening new accounts for individuals. We would find it very helpful if there were a similar guide to verify business E.I.N.'s. Can you make a suggestion?

Answer: Boy, is my ear sore! I just spent two hours on the telephone with the Internal Revenue Service trying to get you a good answer! Here's what I wound up with...

If you need an SS4 form for an Employer Identification Number (E.I.N.), you can call (800) 829-3676 which is the Tax Forms Distribution Center in Richmond, VA and they will send you one. That number is good nationwide.

BH: "Is it also good in Alaska and Hawaii?"

IRS: "I don't know-we'll get back to you on that."If you need a number immediately, you can get one over the phone or over the fax by asking for the local number when you call 800 number above.

BH: "Is there a list published of these local numbers by state?"

IRS: "I don't know-we'll get back to you on that."If you have a question, you need to call Taxpayer Service on (800) 829-1040. (Be patient-I had to try 22 times) When I finally got through, they referred me to Public Affairs.

BH: "Is there a book or list that could tell what numbers are legitimate, or when they were issued. What controls are in place, to assure people opening accounts that the numbers are not issued fraudulently ?"

IRS: "I don't know-we'll get back..." Well, you get the idea!We'll keep after this one and see if we can get you some more information.

Copyright © 1991 Bankers' Hotline. Originally appeared in Bankers' Hotline, Vol. 2, No. 8, 10/91