Understanding the IRS 147C Letter in 2025

An IRS 147C letter acts as official confirmation of your business’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) and legal name. It’s essentially a replacement document that you can request if the original EIN notice (Form CP 575) was lost, misplaced, or never arrived. Instead of applying for a new number, this letter provides verified proof of your existing EIN, which many banks, vendors, and government agencies require when working with your business.

When You’ll Be Asked for a 147C Letter

Banking Requirements

When you open a business bank account, apply for a business credit card, or request a loan, the bank will usually ask for EIN verification. A 147C letter works as the official proof they need.

Business Partnerships

Vendors, payroll companies, or service providers may want to confirm your EIN before working with you. Having the 147C letter ready makes the process smoother.

Licensing and Permits

Some state or local agencies require EIN verification when you apply for business licenses or permits. The 147C letter helps you meet this requirement without hassle.

Contracts

Certain clients may ask for EIN verification before they sign an agreement with your business. Providing the 147C letter builds trust and keeps things moving quickly.

Difference Between a 147C Letter and CP 575

The CP 575 is the original EIN confirmation letter sent automatically when your EIN application is approved. The IRS only issues it once, and if it’s lost, it cannot be replaced. The 147C letter, on the other hand, is something you can request at any time. It contains the same essential information and serves the same verification purpose, but it’s available whenever you need it.

Who Can Request a 147C Letter?

• Business owners – Sole proprietors, listed partners, or corporate officers (such as presidents, treasurers, or secretaries) can request it directly.
• Trustees or executors – For trusts or estate-owned businesses, the trustee or executor is authorized to make the request.
• Authorized representatives – Accountants or payroll providers may request the letter, but only if they have official authorization on file with the IRS, such as a Power of Attorney (Form 2848) or Tax Information Authorization (Form 8821).

How to Request Your 147C Letter

• Call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933. The line is open on weekdays from 7 AM to 7 PM local time. Follow the prompts for EIN-related inquiries.

• Verify your authority by answering the security questions the IRS agent asks about your business. This step confirms you’re authorized to request the letter.

• Choose your delivery method. The IRS can mail the letter, which usually takes 4–6 weeks, or send it by fax for immediate delivery. For security reasons, they do not send the 147C letter by email.

Alternatives Before Requesting

Before calling the IRS, check whether you already have your EIN on file. It appears on past tax returns, bank documents, and licensing paperwork. However, keep in mind that many institutions require official IRS verification, not just the number itself. That’s when a 147C letter becomes necessary.

Managing and Safeguarding Your EIN Documentation

Once you obtain your 147C letter, make sure it doesn’t get lost again.

• Keep both physical and digital copies stored securely.
• Share copies with trusted professionals like your accountant or attorney.
• Update your records with banks, agencies, and partners whenever your business details change.

Good recordkeeping can prevent unnecessary delays when you need verification in the future.

Common Misconceptions About the 147C Letter

• You can request it more than once. Unlike the CP 575, which is only issued once, the 147C letter can be requested as many times as you need.
• It never expires. The letter itself has no expiration date, although some banks or agencies may prefer a recent copy.
• It’s not open to everyone. Only authorized individuals, such as business owners or representatives with proper IRS authorization, can request the letter.

Get Expert Help with Your IRS 147C Letter

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At LedgersCFO, we specialize in making IRS letters like the 147C easier to understand and manage. Our team carefully reviews your notice, breaks it down in plain English, and guides you on the right steps forward. Whether you need to confirm details, dispute corrections, or set up a payment plan, we help you handle it smoothly so you can stay focused on running your business.

FAQs

1. What is an IRS 147C letter?

It’s an official document from the IRS that verifies your business’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) and legal business name. You can request it if your original EIN confirmation (Form CP 575) is lost, misplaced, or never received.

2. Why would I need a 147C letter?

You may need a 147C letter when banks, government agencies, vendors, or licensing authorities ask for official verification of your EIN. It serves as proof of your business’s identity when opening accounts, applying for permits, or entering into contracts.

3. Does the 147C letter expire?

No, it doesn’t have an expiration date. However, some banks or agencies may ask for a recent copy to make sure your business information is still up to date.

4. Can I request a 147C letter online?

No, the IRS does not provide it online. You must call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line (1-800-829-4933) and request delivery by mail or fax.

5. How can LedgersCFO help with a 147C letter?

LedgersCFO guides you through the process of requesting and managing your 147C letter. We explain the steps clearly, help ensure you have the right authorization in place, and assist with recordkeeping so you always have verified EIN documentation ready when you need it.