Do You Need an EIN for an Estate? (2026)

Quick answer

Yes. Here's exactly when you need an EIN for an estate, and how to get one free.

Do you need an EIN for an estate?

When someone passes away, their estate becomes a separate taxpayer, and the executor or administrator needs an EIN to manage it — to open an estate bank account, file the estate's income tax return (Form 1041), and pay any bills or distributions. You can't use the deceased person's Social Security number for the estate's accounts.

How to get your EIN — free, in about 15 minutes

However you answer above, getting an EIN is free. Apply directly on the IRS website and you'll have your number immediately — never pay a third-party site that charges $100–$300 for a free government service. See how to apply and why the paid sites are a scam.

Frequently asked questions

The executor or personal representative named in the will (or appointed by the court). They apply on the IRS site with the deceased person's information, and the EIN is issued to the estate.

No. Once someone dies, their SSN can't be used for the estate's income or bank accounts. The estate is a separate entity that needs its own EIN.

Yes — free directly from the IRS, issued immediately online. Avoid paid services that charge to obtain it for you.

Do You Need an EIN for an Estate?