Is getting an EIN free from the IRS?

Yes, obtaining an EIN directly from the IRS is completely free.

The IRS does not charge any fee for EIN applications regardless of whether you apply online, by phone, by fax, or by mail. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge $50 to $300 to "help" you get an EIN. These services simply fill out the same Form SS-4 that you can complete yourself. The official IRS EIN application is available at irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online. If a formation service includes EIN acquisition in their package, the fee covers their administrative work in handling the paperwork, not the EIN itself. Lovie offers EIN application as an optional add-on at checkout, separate from the $29 formation fee.