An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business entity for tax purposes. It's often referred to as a Federal Tax Identification Number.
Why Do You Need an EIN for The Campaign Registry (TCR)?
The Campaign Registry (TCR) is the platform used to register Application-to-Person (A2P) 10DLC messaging campaigns, which ensure compliance with carrier regulations and prevent spam. When registering your messaging campaign with TCR, the EIN is required to verify your business as part of the vetting process.
Here’s why it’s necessary:
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Business Verification: The EIN confirms your business is legitimate and properly registered with the IRS.
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Compliance: Carriers require this information to ensure campaigns align with federal regulations (like the Telephone Consumer Protection Act - TCPA) and to protect consumers from unwanted messages.
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Trust and Transparency: Including your EIN in the registration builds trust with mobile carriers and increases the likelihood of approval for your messaging campaigns.
If you don’t have an EIN, you’ll need to apply for one through the IRS, as it’s a critical step in registering for compliant A2P messaging through TCR.
Lost or misplaced your EIN?
If you've previously applied for and received an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business but misplaced it, here are some steps to help you locate it:
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Check IRS Documentation: Locate the computer-generated notice the IRS issued when you applied for your EIN. This serves as confirmation of your EIN application and approval.
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Contact Your Bank or Licensing Agency: If you used your EIN to open a bank account or apply for state or local licenses, reach out to the bank or agency to retrieve the number.
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Review Tax Returns: Look at a previously filed tax return for your business, if applicable. Your EIN should be listed on the return.
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Contact the IRS: If you're unable to find your EIN using the above methods, call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 (available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time). Be prepared to provide identifying information, and the IRS will share your EIN if you're authorized to receive it. Authorized individuals include sole proprietors, partners in a partnership, corporate officers, trustees, or estate executors.