Determine whether the estate needs an EIN
Gather the decedent’s full legal name and Social Security number
Gather the executor’s or personal representative’s full legal name, address, and SSN or ITIN
Have the decedent’s date of death ready
Decide the estate’s mailing address
Apply online through the IRS EIN Assistant if eligible
Select the estate as the entity type
Complete IRS Form SS-4 if applying by fax or mail
Enter the decedent’s name in the legal name field
Enter “Estate of [Decedent’s Name]” as the entity name if required
Enter the executor’s name and title as responsible party
Sign the application as the executor or personal representative
Submit the application to the IRS by fax, mail, or online
Receive the EIN confirmation letter from the IRS
Keep the EIN confirmation for estate bank accounts, tax filings, and probate records