How to get an EIN

What is an EIN?

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a free, 9-digit tax ID issued by the IRS to identify a business — similar to a Social Security Number, but for your business. It looks like this: 12-3456789.

If you're operating as a sole proprietor, LLC, S-corp, or any other business entity, you can get one for free in about 15 minutes. You do not need employees to qualify.

Why Lineage needs your EIN

10DLC registration requires a verified business EIN. Mobile carriers use it to confirm your business identity before approving your phone numbers for outbound calling and SMS. Without a verified EIN, your numbers cannot be registered.

How to get your EIN

Getting an EIN is free and takes about 15 minutes on the IRS website. Your EIN is issued immediately at the end of the application — you do not have to wait.

1. Go to the IRS EIN Online Application and click Apply Online Now
2. Select your business structure (sole proprietor, LLC, etc.)
3. Enter your business name, address, and basic details
4. Submit — your EIN typically appears on screen immediately

Heads up: The IRS online application is available Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time. It is not available on weekends or federal holidays.

Using your EIN confirmation letter (IRS Notice CP 575)

After you apply, the IRS will mail you IRS Notice CP 575 — your official EIN confirmation. This notice shows your business name and address exactly as the IRS has them on file.

When filling out your 10DLC application in Lineage, use the name and address from your CP 575 — not a DBA name, not a nickname, and not an old address. Even minor differences (like "LLC" vs. "L.L.C.") can cause your application to be rejected by the carrier registry.

Already have an EIN but lost your CP 575?

Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 (Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time) and ask for a 147C letter. This is the IRS's official EIN verification letter and serves the same purpose as the CP 575 for 10DLC registration.

Need help?

• Contact Lineage Support and we'll be happy to assist.

Updated on: 30/06/2026