Lecture Transcript Notes: IRS Call on EIN Numbers

Introduction

• Call to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Purpose: Discussing Employer Identification Numbers (EIN) for businesses formed outside the US

Key Participants

• Client seeking information about EINs for foreign entities
• IRS representative, Mr. Heath, ID: 14271199

Purpose of Call

• Client assists foreign entities (Canada, Ghana, etc.) in obtaining EINs
• Inquiries about inconsistencies in EIN prefixes for foreign businesses

Main Issues Discussed

EIN Prefixes

• EINs for foreign entities should start with 98 or sometimes 99
• Some clients received EINs with prefixes like 30 or 61, indicating domestic status

Resolution Steps

• Call Domestic EIN Line: Suggested when EIN indicates domestic business; Phone: 800-829-4933
  • Domestic businesses: Formed in US states, territories, or DC
  • Hours: Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET/PT

Addressing Errors

• Write to the IRS entity department to correct EIN classification
• Include a general correspondence, authorization (8821 or 2848), and documentation supporting the claim of being international

Contact Information for Entity Department

• Address for correspondence:
  • Internal Revenue Service
  • Stop 6273
  • Ogden, Utah, 84201
• Attention: BMF (Business Master File) Entity Function
• Certified mail recommended for proof of receipt
• Response expected within 30 days

Conclusion

• Ensure all relevant documentation is included in correspondence
• Verify correct business classification with supporting documents

Personal Information

• Mr. Heath, IRS Representative
• Agent ID: 142799

These notes summarize the discussion about EIN numbers for foreign businesses and the steps to address incorrect classifications.