Ein — Payroll Definition

What is Employer Identification Number (EIN)?

An EIN is a nine-digit federal taxpayer identification number assigned by the IRS to a business or other entity. Employers generally need one, and it is reported on employer tax forms such as Form W-2. Whether an EIN belongs on another document depends on that document's official instructions; a pay statement format is governed separately. The IRS issues EINs without a fee through its official application process, but eligibility and processing method can vary.

How to apply this payroll definition

Locate the label beside its current-period amount, taxable-wage basis, and year-to-date total. Compare it with prior genuine statements, benefits materials, the employer's payroll documentation, and the primary source linked on this page. The same abbreviation can carry a different employer-specific meaning.

What the label does not prove

A familiar term or plausible amount does not authenticate a pay statement or confirm identity, employment, wages, deductions, tax compliance, or eligibility. Ask the verified payroll contact about an unknown code. Use current agency instructions or a qualified adviser when a rate, filing, benefit, garnishment, or legal decision depends on the answer.

Browse all payroll definitions or use the pay-statement codes guide.