The IRS previously required form SS-4 to apply for an Employee Identification Number (EIN). Now they offer an interview-style application online. Here is the link to that application filled out for a new nonprofit organization requesting a new EIN.
If you would like to begin at the beginning of the application and fill in the “Identification” portion yourself, so that you can see the IRS instructions, click here. You will then click “Begin Application”. On the next page, choose the last option: View Additional Types, Including Tax-Exempt and Governmental Organizations, then continue. Again the last option, Other Non-Profit/Tax-Exempt Organizations, then continue and continue again. Select Started a new business then continue. Choose an individual as the responsible party, and continue.
After all validations are done you will get your EIN immediately. You can then download, save and print your EIN confirmation notice.
This EIN is your permanent number and can be used immediately for most of your business needs, including opening a bank account, applying for business licenses, and filing a tax return by mail. However, no matter how you applied (phone, fax, mail, or online), it will take up to two weeks before your EIN becomes part of the IRS’ permanent records. You must wait until this occurs before you can file an electronic return, make an electronic payment, or pass an IRS Taxpayer Identification Number matching program.