If you lost your EIN confirmation letter, start by recovering proof of the number already assigned to your business. The IRS lists three confirmation routes: a business entity transcript, a digital CP575 for eligible Business Tax Account users, or Letter 147C, requested through its business and specialty tax line. Losing the notice alone is no reason to apply for another EIN. See the IRS EIN confirmation guidance.
The practical first step is to ask whoever needs the documentation exactly what they will accept. That answer helps you choose the appropriate IRS route.
Ask what proof the requester accepts
Before obtaining a document, confirm these points with the bank or other requester:
- Which documents will satisfy the request: digital CP575, Letter 147C, or a business entity transcript?
- Which identifying details must match their records?
- What secure channel should you use to submit the document?
The IRS describes digital CP575 as written EIN confirmation and lists banking as a potential use. That does not establish what a particular institution will accept. Confirm its documentation requirements before relying on a specific option. The IRS CP575 explanation describes the digital notice and its purpose.
Also check your existing business records securely. You may already have the confirmation you need. Keep finding the number and obtaining acceptable proof as two separate tasks: knowing your EIN does not answer which document the requester wants.
Choose the appropriate IRS route
Digital CP575 through Business Tax Account
Eligible Business Tax Account users can obtain digital CP575. The IRS says this is written confirmation that substitutes for the original CP575A–J notices and Letter 147C.
There is an important distinction: the IRS cannot recreate the original CP575A–J notice. The digital CP575 is the available confirmation option described on its CP575 notice page. Check the official guidance for access information, then confirm that the requester accepts this document.
Business entity transcript
The IRS also offers a business entity transcript as an EIN confirmation route. Follow the eligibility and access rules on the IRS business tax transcript page.
Use the guidance specifically addressing an entity transcript when considering this option. Before obtaining one for a documentation request, ask whether the requester accepts it and which details it needs to verify.
Letter 147C by contacting the IRS
You can call the IRS business and specialty tax line to request Letter 147C, also called “EIN Previously Assigned.” Use the current instructions linked from the IRS EIN page.
This route confirms an existing number. Follow the IRS instructions for the request; do not assume a particular delivery method or turnaround time.
Checklist before sharing your EIN documentation
Work through this short checklist before submitting proof:
- Confirm the requested proof. Identify the accepted document and any details the requester needs.
- Check existing records securely. Look for the confirmation already held with your business records.
- Use the matching IRS route. Choose digital CP575, an entity transcript, or Letter 147C based on access and the requester's requirements.
- Compare the exact entity name and EIN. Check the document against the details supplied for the request. Ask about any discrepancy before submission.
- Share through a secure channel. Confirm the submission method with the recipient; avoid sending full tax IDs through unsecured channels.
Matching the details helps you identify discrepancies, but it does not guarantee acceptance. The requester still determines whether the documentation satisfies its requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Can the IRS recreate my original CP575?
No. The IRS says original CP575A–J notices cannot be recreated. It separately offers digital CP575 to eligible users. See the CP575 guidance.
Can digital CP575 substitute for the original notice or Letter 147C?
Yes. The IRS describes digital CP575 as a substitute for both. Confirm what your particular requester accepts before submitting it.
Should I apply again because my EIN letter is lost?
No. Losing the notice alone is no reason to reapply. Use an IRS confirmation route for your existing EIN.
Related reading
For the separate application process, read how to get an EIN. For a responsible-party change, see Form 8822-B and LLC responsible-party changes.
Sources checked November 4, 2026