Form 147C, also known as the IRS Letter 147C, is a document the IRS sends to businesses or entities to confirm their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN).
It verifies the business name, address, and TIN/EIN registered with the IRS. Companies may need this letter to open a bank account, apply for licenses, or complete transactions that require proof of tax identification.
Why is Form 147C important?
Receiving or requesting Form 147C usually means the IRS or another institution needs to verify your company’s tax identity.
The letter serves as proof that your EIN or TIN matches what’s on file with the IRS.
Key reasons Form 147C is important:
Confirms tax identity. Verifies that your EIN or TIN is valid and linked to the correct business.Ensures compliance. Demonstrates that your company is registered and recognized by the IRS.
Required for business transactions. Many banks, vendors, and government agencies require proof of a valid EIN.
Prevents errors or fraud. Helps correct mismatched records and guard against identity misuse.
Supports licensing and certifications. Often needed for permits or government contracts that require federal tax documentation.
How to Request Form 147C from the IRS
If you misplace your EIN confirmation or receive a notice requesting verification, you can obtain Form 147C directly from the IRS.
Step-by-step:
Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line:
U.S. callers: (800) 829-4933
International: (267) 941-1000
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. local time
Verify your identity: Have your business name, address, and EIN ready. The IRS representative may ask additional questions to confirm authorization.
Request Form 147C: Ask the agent to issue the letter confirming your EIN/TIN.
Choose delivery method: The IRS can fax or mail the letter to your business address on record. For security reasons, it cannot be emailed.
Check the details: Review the letter for accuracy and store it securely for future use.
Tip: Only authorized persons—such as business owners, officers, or authorized agents—can request a 147C letter. Keeping your EIN documentation organized prevents future delays.
When You Might Need Form 147C
Situation | Why It’s Needed |
Opening a business bank account | Banks must verify your tax ID before approving an account |
Applying for business licenses or permits | State or federal agencies confirm EIN accuracy |
Responding to an IRS notice | The IRS requests the letter to correct EIN or TIN mismatches |
Completing vendor or government contracts | Partners require proof of valid tax registration |
Recovering a lost EIN confirmation letter | Form 147C serves as replacement documentation |
What Information Form 147C Contains
The letter includes:
Official IRS letterhead and issue date
Legal business name and address
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Confirmation that the EIN is active and assigned
Contact information for the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line
This letter is informational only—it does not replace your EIN or create a new one.
FAQs About Form 147C
Is Form 147C the same as an EIN confirmation letter (CP 575)?
Not exactly. The CP 575 is issued when your EIN is first created; Form 147C is a duplicate verification letter you can request later if you lose the original or need updated proof.
How long does it take to get Form 147C?
Most requests are processed immediately by phone and sent within a few business days by fax or mail.
Can I request Form 147C online? No. The IRS only issues it by phone to authorized individuals for security reasons.
Do I need to file Form 147C with my taxes?
No. It’s not a filing form—it’s simply documentation that confirms your business’s EIN.
Last updated: October 2025
