Determine whether the estate needs an EIN
Gather required information about the deceased person and the estate
Complete IRS Form SS-4
Apply online through the IRS EIN Assistant
Apply by fax using Form SS-4
Apply by mail using Form SS-4
Apply by phone if applying from outside the U.S.
Use the executor, administrator, or personal representative as the responsible party
Keep the EIN confirmation letter for estate records
Use the estate EIN for estate bank accounts, tax returns, and other estate transactions