Natalia Vander Laan
Probate, the court process of administering a deceased person’s estate, can be complex and challenging. When a person dies, their estate often includes assets such as bank accounts, real estate, investments, and personal property. To manage these assets, pay debts, and distribute what remains to beneficiaries, the estate may need to file tax returns or engage in financial transactions. An Employer Identification Number is necessary for these purposes to handle the estate’s financial matters separately from the deceased’s personal Social Security Number.
The EIN, sometimes referred to as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is issued by the Internal Revenue Service and is used to identify a business entity, which, in the case of probate, is the estate of the deceased. An EIN serves as the estate’s tax identification number, similar to how a Social Security Number functions for individuals.
The EIN is necessary for various financial transactions and filings, including (1) filing taxes: probate estates are separate taxable legal entities, and they may need to file income tax returns. An EIN is necessary for reporting income, deductions, and credits associated with the probate estate. (2) Opening a bank account: to manage the estate’s financial assets and liabilities effectively, including paying utilities, taxes, debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries, it is typically necessary to open a bank account in the estate’s name and banks will require an EIN to do so. (3) Managing assets: An EIN is required for various transactions involving the estate’s assets, such as selling property or transferring ownership of investments.
A person applying for an EIN should first gather all the necessary information about the estate, including the deceased person’s name, Social Security Number, date of death, and details about the estate’s personal representative, including their name and Social Security Number. Next, IRS Form SS-4 must be completed. The IRS Form SS-4 is the IRS application form, which can be filled out online or submitted via mail or fax. When completing the form, all information should be provided accurately. Then, the application must be submitted to the IRS. If applying online, typically the EIN will be available immediately and the official letter will be received within a few weeks. If submitting by mail, it may take several weeks to receive the EIN.
Once the EIN is received, all relevant parties, such as banks, financial institutions, and other entities involved in the estate administration process shall be notified and provided with the EIN to ensure proper and prompt handling of the estate-related transactions.
Obtaining an EIN is a critical step in the probate process, allowing the effective administration of the probate estate’s financial matters. Accuracy is key and ensuring all information provided on the EIN application is accurate and up-to-date is the most crucial. Any errors or discrepancies could lead to delays in processing. Preserving records of all communications and transactions related to the EIN application and use, including copies of the Form SS-4, correspondence with the IRS, and any related documentation, is also very important. For those unfamiliar with the probate process or uncertain how to obtain an EIN, seeking guidance from a legal or financial professional may ensure compliance with all the requirements.
