Receiving or requesting IRS Letter 147C can feel confusing, especially if you are unsure what it means or why it matters for your business. Whether you are opening a bank account, applying for business credit, onboarding payroll services, or verifying tax records, this document plays a critical role in confirming your Employer Identification Number (EIN). Many business owners encounter Letter 147C when they have misplaced their original EIN confirmation notice, commonly known as CP 575, and need official verification from the Internal Revenue Service.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain what IRS Letter 147C is, how it differs from CP 575, how to request it from the IRS, how long it takes to receive it, and how it is used for business verification. We also provide practical steps to avoid delays and ensure accurate EIN confirmation. If you are a small business owner, sole proprietor, LLC manager, corporation officer, or nonprofit administrator, understanding IRS Letter 147C is essential for maintaining smooth financial and tax operations.
What Is IRS Letter 147C?
IRS Letter 147C is an official document issued by the Internal Revenue Service to confirm a business’s Employer Identification Number (EIN). It serves as a replacement verification letter when the original EIN confirmation notice, known as CP 575, is lost or unavailable.
Unlike CP 575, which is automatically sent when an EIN is first assigned, Letter 147C must be requested. It contains the legal name of the business entity, the EIN assigned to it, and confirmation that the EIN is valid and registered in IRS records.
Banks, lenders, payroll providers, and state agencies often require formal EIN verification before processing financial transactions or approving services.
Why Businesses Need IRS Letter 147C
There are several common situations where businesses need EIN verification through IRS Letter 147C. Financial institutions require confirmation when opening a business bank account. Payroll providers request it before setting up employee tax reporting. Lenders may demand it when evaluating business credit applications. Additionally, government agencies sometimes require proof of EIN during licensing or permit approvals.
If CP 575 is misplaced, banks will not accept unofficial EIN documentation. In these cases, Letter 147C becomes the official replacement proof.
IRS 147C vs CP 575: Understanding the Difference
Many business owners ask about the difference between IRS Letter 147C and CP 575. While both documents confirm your EIN, their origin and issuance differ significantly.
CP 575 is automatically generated and mailed immediately after the IRS assigns your EIN. It is considered the original EIN confirmation letter.
IRS Letter 147C, on the other hand, is not automatically issued. It is generated only upon request and serves as a replacement confirmation. Both documents verify the same EIN, but Letter 147C is specifically intended for situations where CP 575 cannot be located.
How to Request IRS Letter 147C
Requesting IRS Letter 147C requires direct contact with the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line. The IRS does not provide an online request option for this letter. To request it:
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Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line.
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Verify your identity and business information.
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Request an EIN verification letter (147C).
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Choose to receive it by mail or fax.
In many cases, the IRS can fax the letter immediately during the call, provided you have access to a secure fax line. Mailed copies typically take several business days to arrive.
Who Can Request IRS Letter 147C?
Only authorized individuals can request IRS EIN verification letters. This includes:
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Sole proprietors
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Corporate officers
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LLC members
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Authorized partners
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Individuals with a valid Power of Attorney
The IRS will verify the caller’s identity before releasing any information.
How Long Does It Take to Receive IRS Letter 147C?
The processing time depends on your chosen delivery method. If you opt for fax delivery, the letter may be sent immediately after verification. If you request mailing, delivery can take approximately 7 to 14 business days, depending on postal service timelines.
Planning ahead is critical if you need the letter for time-sensitive financial transactions.
Common Reasons Businesses Lose CP 575
Many businesses misplace their original EIN confirmation letter due to administrative transitions, office relocations, staff turnover, or incomplete recordkeeping. Because CP 575 is only issued once, replacing it requires requesting Letter 147C.
Maintaining digital and physical copies of important IRS correspondence can prevent unnecessary delays.
What Information Appears on IRS Letter 147C?
IRS Letter 147C typically includes:
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Legal business name
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EIN number
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Business address on record
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Confirmation of EIN assignment
It does not include detailed tax history or account balances. Its sole purpose is EIN verification.
When IRS Letter 147C Is Not Enough
In rare situations, banks may request additional documentation beyond Letter 147C. For example, they may require Articles of Incorporation, Operating Agreements, or state registration certificates. While Letter 147C verifies the EIN, it does not replace organizational formation documents.
Best Practices for EIN Recordkeeping
To avoid future complications related to IRS EIN confirmation, businesses should implement organized recordkeeping procedures. Store digital scans of CP 575 and Letter 147C in secure cloud storage. Maintain physical copies in a designated compliance folder. Restrict access to authorized personnel to protect sensitive tax identification data.
Proactive documentation management saves time and prevents interruptions in financial operations.
Is IRS Letter 147C Free?
Yes, the IRS does not charge a fee for issuing Letter 147C. However, businesses should be cautious of third-party services that offer paid EIN verification assistance. Since the IRS provides this service directly at no cost, contacting the agency yourself is typically the most efficient option.
Security and Fraud Prevention
Because an EIN is a critical tax identifier, protecting it is essential. Never share your EIN publicly or through unsecured communication channels. Fraudsters may attempt to use stolen EINs for identity theft or fraudulent tax filings. Always verify the legitimacy of institutions requesting EIN documentation.
Conclusion
IRS Letter 147C serves as an official EIN verification letter for businesses that have lost their original CP 575 confirmation notice. It provides essential proof of your Employer Identification Number for banks, payroll providers, lenders, and government agencies. Although it cannot be requested online, contacting the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line ensures prompt issuance via fax or mail. By understanding the purpose, process, and best practices surrounding IRS Letter 147C, businesses can maintain seamless financial operations and avoid unnecessary delays in essential transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is IRS Letter 147C used for?
It is used to verify a business’s Employer Identification Number when the original CP 575 letter is unavailable.
How do I request IRS Letter 147C?
You must call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line and request EIN verification.
Is IRS Letter 147C the same as CP 575?
No. CP 575 is the original EIN assignment notice, while Letter 147C is a replacement verification letter.
Can I request IRS Letter 147C online?
No, requests must be made by phone.
Does the IRS charge for Letter 147C?
No, the IRS provides it free of charge.