How to Apply for an EIN Online for Form 2290 Filing

Before you can use Form 2290 Heavy Vehicle Use Tax to file an HVUT, you need to have a valid EIN, or Employer Identification Number, issued by the IRS. Many new truck owners or owner-operators will try to file their taxes using a Social Security Number (SSN), but the IRS does not accept SSNs for Form 2290.

If you want to know how to apply for an EIN online, then here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for one so that you can quickly begin the process of e-filing your Form 2290.

What is an EIN, and Why Would You Need It?

An employer identification number is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes.

As an individual owner-operator, not being a company, you still need to acquire an Employer Identification Number in order to prepare Form 2290 and register your vehicles as well as make contributions toward HVUT payments.

You cannot use your SSN or ITIN for filing Form 2290 — only a valid EIN will be accepted by the IRS.

How to Apply for EIN Online in a Step-by-Step Way

It is very simple to apply for your EIN directly via the official IRS website. Here’s how:

• Visit the IRS EIN Application Page Go to the official IRS site at irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein.
• Select the Type of Business Choose the entity type that fits you best — most truckers go with Sole Proprietor or LLC.
• Put Down Responsible Party Info Enter your name, address, and SSN (for verification purposes only-not for Form 2290 filing).
• Submit Application Complete and submit your application online - after approval the IRS will issue your EIN immediately on the confirmation screen.
• Print or Save Your EIN Confirmation Letter Briefly save or print the confirmation notice for your records because you will need this number to e-file your Form 2290.

Important Application Tips for EIN

Apply online directly on the IRS site-free, secure and direct.

Apply once only. Multiple EINs for one business will result in IRS rejection.

Wait at least for 2 weeks after getting an EIN before e-filing Form 2290. The IRS system may take some time to update the new EINs.

The business name and EIN should exactly match when filing Form 2290 since mismatched details often lead to rejected returns.

Why you should apply for EIN to e-file Form 2290

The IRS will require that every filing for HVUT includes a valid Employer Identification Number for identification purposes. If you file at the end of the tax year with an SSN, the IRS will reject your return automatically.

E-filing an application with a valid EIN will ensure:Faster processing of the IRS with instant Schedule 1.

Payment and record verification security.

Error-free submission will receive an immediate confirmation.

File Form 2290 Online After Getting Your EIN

You can easily e-file your Form 2290 online with an IRS-authorized provider once you receive your EIN.

Our secure platform calculates your HVUT automatically, helps prevent filing errors, and delivers your IRS-stamped Schedule 1 instantly.

Get your EIN first-and then e-file Form 2290.