A federal tax identification Number (TIN) or a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a distinct, nine-digit number assigned to businesses by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is a social security number for businesses and used for identification when working with any federal agency involved in the regulation of businesses. The identification number is used by sole proprietors, partnerships, corporations, employers, trusts and estates, specific individuals, government agencies, and other businesses. Businesses that offer a product or service that are taxed are required to have a federal tax ID number. Those living in states that tax personal services or those that are required by law to collect sales tax need a federal tax ID. This includes self-employed persons. Government forms filed for the business like income tax forms will either need the EIN or the social security number. The EIN is not sensitive information like a social security number and therefore it is distributed through the internet and publications by a number of businesses. To get a federal tax id number one must get in contact with the local IRS field office or telephone the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Hotline. Business owners can also apply for an ID number online at IRS.gov. Once the number has been issued, the owner will receive a confirmation notice. This ID number never expires. Since there is no reissuing of the EIN, businesses are cautioned to keep the identification number in a safe place. Businesses that do lose the EIN can find it on the confirmation notice or they can contact the Business and Specialty Tax line. Charitable organizations with chapters nationwide must file for a separate EIN for each chapter. However, the main organization can file for group tax exempt status. It is advised that those considering donating to a non-profit organization verify that the organization is properly registered with the IRS for tax-exempt status. This information is available to the public through the IRS. It is essential that businesses apply for an employer identification number. Without one they will not be able to file any business related forms or submit tax information to the IRS.