Before you can run payroll for your nanny, you need an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Think of it as a Social Security number for your role as an employer.
The good news: it's free, takes about 5 minutes, and you can do it online.
New to household employment? Start with our household employer payroll guide for the full picture.
What Is an EIN?
An EIN is a 9-digit number the IRS assigns to employers. It's how they track your employment taxes—separate from your personal Social Security number.
Format: XX-XXXXXXX (like 12-3456789)
You'll use your EIN when:
- Filing quarterly employment taxes
- Preparing W-2s for your employee
- Completing Schedule H on your tax return
- Setting up a payroll service
Do I Really Need One?
Yes, if you're paying a household employee above the annual threshold ($3,000 for 2026). You can't file employment taxes without an EIN.
Some families try to use their Social Security number instead. This technically works for Schedule H, but it's not recommended—better to keep your employer taxes separate from your personal tax ID.
How to Get an EIN (Online)
The easiest method is the IRS online application. Here's how:
Step 1: Go to the IRS Website
Visit irs.gov/ein
Click "Apply Online Now"
Step 2: Start the Application
- Click "Begin Application"
- Select "Individual/Sole Proprietor" as your entity type
- This is correct for household employers—you're not a business
Step 3: Answer the Questions
You'll be asked:
- Why you need an EIN: Select "Hired employees"
- Type of employees: Select "Household employees"
- Your name and SSN
- Your address
- Responsible party (that's you)
Step 4: Get Your EIN
After submitting, you'll immediately receive your EIN on screen. You can also download a confirmation letter.
Important: Save this number somewhere safe. You'll need it for all employment tax filings.
Alternative: Apply by Mail or Fax
If you can't apply online, you can submit Form SS-4:
| Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online | Immediate |
| Fax | 4 business days |
| 4 weeks |
Download Form SS-4 from irs.gov if needed.
Common Questions
Can I use my spouse's EIN?
No. Each person needs their own EIN if they're the responsible party. But typically, only one spouse needs an EIN for household employment.
What if I already have an EIN from a business?
You can use an existing EIN for household employment. You don't need a separate one.
Do I need a new EIN each year?
No. Once you have an EIN, it's yours forever. Use the same one year after year.
What if I lost my EIN?
Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933. They can look it up for you.
Can I get an EIN for my nanny?
No. An EIN is for employers. Your nanny uses their Social Security number.
After You Get Your EIN
Once you have your EIN, you're ready to:
- Set up payroll — Start calculating and withholding taxes
- Register with your state — Most states require separate registration for unemployment insurance
- Have your nanny complete paperwork — W-4 and I-9 forms
Ready for the next steps? See our how it works guide for the full process from EIN to W-2.
State Registration
Your EIN is federal. Most states also require you to register for state unemployment insurance (SUTA), which gives you a separate state account number.
Check your state's requirements →
Using Your EIN with NannyKeeper
When you sign up for NannyKeeper, we'll ask for your EIN during setup. We use it to:
- Calculate your tax obligations correctly
- Generate accurate W-2s
- Prepare your Schedule H
- Create quarterly tax estimates
Don't have an EIN yet? No problem—you can start tracking payments while you get one.
Timeline Summary
| Task | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Get EIN online | 5 minutes |
| Register with state | 15-30 minutes |
| Set up payroll service | 10 minutes |
| Total setup time | ~45 minutes |
Getting compliant isn't as hard as it sounds. The EIN is just the first step—and the easiest one.
Ready to simplify nanny taxes?
NannyKeeper handles the calculations, deadlines, and paperwork so you can focus on your family.