How the EIN questionnaire works

When your package includes an EIN, Genaya translates IRS Form SS-4 into plain language so you are not decoding government terminology mid-order. The questionnaire is the same for an LLC or a corporation - only the responsible party's title differs.

Business category

The type of business the IRS uses to categorize the company - for example, construction, professional services, or retail.

Business purpose

A short, plain-language description of what the business does - for example, "residential plumbing services."

Reason for applying

Why the company needs an EIN - almost always "started a new business" for a fresh filing.

Employees expected

Whether you plan to pay W-2 employees. Say yes and Genaya asks how many and the date of the first wages paid - both are required once you say yes. Say no and the questionnaire skips ahead.

Form 944

Whether the company expects to file the annual employment tax return (Form 944) instead of the quarterly Form 941 - only asked if you expect employees.

Excise tax questions

Four yes/no questions the IRS requires: vehicles over 55,000 lbs, wagering or gambling, Form 720 (federal excise tax return), and alcohol, tobacco, or firearms.

Responsible party

The person the IRS treats as the company's primary contact. For an LLC this is usually the primary Member or Managing Member; for a corporation it is an officer, such as President or CEO. Requires their name, title, phone number, and Social Security Number.