FEIN Meaning: What Does FEIN Stand for?

Last updated on September 6, 2024 by Liam Daniel

If you’ve ever dealt with business taxes, payroll, or legal documents in the U.S., you may have come across the term “FEIN.” Short for Federal Employer Identification Number, a FEIN is a unique identifier assigned to businesses by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). But what exactly does a FEIN mean, and why is it important?

In this reference, we’ll explore the meaning of FEIN, provide practical examples of its use, and highlight related terms to help you better understand this essential business concept. 

FEIN Meaning and Origin

  • A FEIN, or Federal Employer Identification Number, is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to businesses for tax identification purposes.
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What Does FEIN Stand For?

FEIN stands for Federal Employer Identification Number. It is also known as an EIN, an Employer Identification Number, or a business tax ID. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues FEINs to businesses for tax purposes. This unique identifier is assigned to a business entity, allowing the IRS to easily identify and track the business’s tax obligations and filings.

  • A FEIN functions as a unique identifier for businesses and organizations in the United States
  • The FEIN plays a critical role in tax-related affairs and helps maintain legal compliance
  • Businesses must have a FEIN in order to operate legally and fulfill federal taxation requirements

Origin of FEIN

FEIN, or the Federal Employer Identification Number, originates from the United States tax administration system. The Internal Revenue Service, a bureau of the Department of the Treasury, is responsible for issuing and managing FEINs as part of their mission to collect and administer federal taxes. FEINs are essential for businesses that have employees, operate as partnerships or corporations, or have specific tax responsibilities.

Related Terms to FEIN

  • EIN (Employer Identification Number): This term is synonymous with FEIN and is often used interchangeably. Both terms refer to the unique number assigned to businesses by the IRS.
  • TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number): A TIN is a broader term that covers various types of identification numbers used for tax purposes, including Social Security Numbers (SSNs), Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs), and Employer Identification Numbers (EINs or FEINs). Both individuals and businesses can have TINs.
  • IRS (Internal Revenue Service): The IRS is the U.S. government agency responsible for tax collection and administration. They issue and manage FEINs to help track businesses and their tax obligations.
  • RUC (Registro Único de Contribuyentes): The RUC is a taxpayer identification number used in some Latin American countries, such as Peru and Ecuador. While not directly related to FEINs, the RUC serves a similar purpose in identifying and tracking businesses for taxation.

Other Meanings of FEIN

  • Foreign Employer Identification Number: This is a tax identification number assigned by some foreign countries to businesses and other entities operating within their borders.
  • Fire and Emergency Information Network: This is a communication system used by emergency responders to share information during a fire or other emergency.
  • Financial Education and Information Network: This is a network of organizations and individuals that provide financial education and information to consumers.
  • Foreign Entrepreneurs in Norway: This is a community of foreign entrepreneurs and business owners in Norway that provides support and resources for starting and growing a business in Norway.
  • Federal Energy Information Network: This is a network of government agencies and organizations that collect and disseminate information about energy production, consumption, and policies.
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