How to Get an EIN for Your Photographer (Professional) Business in Illinois (2026)

As a professional photographer in Illinois, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a crucial step in formalizing your business. Whether you're shooting portraits in Chicago, capturing events in Springfield, or selling fine art prints online, an EIN is often necessary for tax purposes, opening a business bank account, and hiring employees. This guide will walk you through the process of getting an EIN for your photography business in Illinois in 2026.

What is an EIN?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to business entities operating in the United States. It's essentially a Social Security number for your business, used to identify it for tax purposes. While sole proprietorships without employees can often use their Social Security number, incorporating as an LLC or corporation typically requires an EIN.

How to Apply for an EIN

  1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure your photography business requires an EIN. Generally, LLCs, corporations, partnerships, and businesses with employees need one. Sole proprietors without employees may not need an EIN unless they plan to incorporate or pay excise taxes.
  2. Choose a Business Structure: Decide on your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, etc.). This decision impacts your tax obligations and liability. In Illinois, LLCs and S-Corps are popular choices for photographers seeking liability protection.
  3. Prepare Form SS-4: Complete IRS Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number. You can download the form from the IRS website or complete the application online.
  4. Apply Online (Recommended): The easiest and fastest way to apply for an EIN is through the IRS website. The online application is available Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
  5. Submit Your Application: Once you've completed Form SS-4, submit it to the IRS online, by fax, or by mail. Online applications are typically processed immediately.
  6. Receive Your EIN: If you applied online, you'll receive your EIN immediately. If you applied by fax or mail, you'll receive your EIN via mail in a few weeks.

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