A 147C letter, also known as an EIN Verification Letter, cannot be requested online. The IRS does not send 147C letters through the internet for security reasons. Since an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is tied to a company’s tax records, the IRS only issues this document through phone or mail.
Even though many IRS services are available online, certain documents containing sensitive business information must be obtained through more secure methods and the 147C letter is one of them.
What Is an IRS 147C Letter?
If an EIN confirmation letter is lost or misplaced, the IRS can issue a 147C EIN Verification Letter. This document verifies the business’s official EIN and serves as proof of its tax identification number.
When an EIN is first issued, the IRS sends a CP 575 confirmation letter. The CP 575 is issued only once.
If a business needs a replacement, the IRS provides a 147C letter instead, which serves the same purpose.
Both CP 575 and 147C letters are accepted as official EIN verification documents.
What Is a 147C Letter Used For?
Businesses may need a 147C letter for:
- Opening a business bank account
- Applying for business credit cards or loans
- Verifying the EIN with payroll companies or tax agencies
- Setting up payroll services
- Replacing a lost EIN confirmation
- Providing EIN documentation to government offices
When an EIN cannot be located anywhere else, the 147C letter becomes the official proof.
What Information Does a 147C Letter Include?
A 147C letter typically includes:
- Information — Details
- EIN Number — The nine-digit Employer Identification Number
- Business Name — The legal name registered with the IRS
- Address — The mailing address on file with the IRS
- IRS Statement — A standard explanation confirming that the EIN belongs to the business
How to Get a 147C Letter
A 147C letter can be requested in two ways:
-
- Request by Phone (Fastest Method)
IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: ☎️ 1-800-829-4933-
- Best times to call:
- 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
- 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Avoid Mondays due to high call volume.
- During the call, the IRS representative will:
- Ask security questions to verify ownership
- Confirm the EIN
- Send the 147C letter by fax (same day) or mail (5–10 business days).
- This is the fastest and most reliable method.
- Best times to call:
-
- Request by Mail (Slower Method)
- A business may send a written request to the IRS.
- This method typically takes 4–6 weeks.
- A written request must include:
- Business name
- EIN
- Requestor’s name and title
- Mailing address
- A statement requesting a “147C EIN Verification Letter”
- A signature
- Request by Phone (Fastest Method)
The correct IRS mailing address depends on the state where the business is located.
CP 575 vs. 147C — What’s the Difference?
Document — Purpose
CP 575 — The original EIN confirmation letter issued when an EIN is first assigned
147C Letter — A replacement EIN verification letter provided if the CP 575 is lost
Both are accepted by banks, lenders, payment processors, and government agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an EIN confirmation letter be downloaded online?
No. EIN verification letters such as CP 575 or 147C cannot be downloaded online.
How long does it take to receive a 147C letter?
- Faxed: Same day
- Mailed after phone request: 5–10 business days
- Mailed after written request: 4–6 weeks
Where can a sample 147C letter be viewed?
Samples may be available on EIN/ITIN assistance websites, but the actual letter must come directly from the IRS.
Need Assistance Getting a 147C Letter?
Tax Care Solutions can assist with EIN-related guidance, IRS communication, and business document support. If help is needed with the process, Tax Care Solutions is available to assist.
