Permit guides › Washington, D.C. › DC-BF-02
Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN): Washington, D.C. restaurant guide
IRS
What it is
Your business's federal tax ID. DC uses it for FR-500 tax registration, the Basic Business License and payroll.
When a restaurant needs it
Right after forming the entity, before DC tax registration.
How to apply
Apply free online with the IRS EIN Online Assistant. The number is issued immediately if approved.
Documents you’ll need
- Entity legal name and formation date
- Responsible party's SSN or ITIN
- Business address
Fee
Free (the IRS never charges for an EIN)
Processing time
Immediate online
Renewal
None
Who files
The responsible party applies online; a third-party designee can apply by fax or mail with Form SS-4.
Good to know
The online session times out after 15 minutes of inactivity, so have your details ready. Ignore sites that charge for an EIN.
Official source
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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.