Permit guides › New York City › BF-02
Employer Identification Number (EIN): New York City restaurant guide
IRS
What it is
Your federal tax ID — used for payroll, banking, sales-tax registration, and most other filings.
When a restaurant needs it
Every business with employees or a separate legal entity.
How to apply
Free online application on irs.gov, completed in one session; the EIN is issued immediately.
Documents you’ll need
- Entity formation documents
- Responsible-party SSN / ITIN
Fee
Free
Processing time
Immediate (online)
Renewal
None
Who files
The responsible party applies, or a third-party designee with authorization.
Good to know
Free and instant on irs.gov. Beware look-alike third-party sites that charge for this — the IRS never charges for an EIN.
Official source
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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.