EIN EXPLAINED NAME CONTROL
Why can different company names match the same EIN?
A match can depend on a short name control, rather than every character of a business’s full name. Different names can produce the same code.
Different full names
One shared name control
The rest of the name can differ.
What is being compared?
The IRS establishes a name control when it assigns an EIN, using the name information on Form SS-4. In a name-control-based check, the relevant comparison is the EIN together with the name control held in the IRS record.
If different submitted names produce the same applicable control for that EIN, they may each return a match. A short code is not a unique identifier for a business name.
Short codes. Specific rules.
Common corporate-name examples
A corporate name control generally uses the first four significant characters. It can be shorter. Valid characters include letters, digits, & and -; internal spaces and other punctuation are not retained.
Not always four characters
A short name can have a short control.
ELMDrop invalid punctuation
A period or exclamation mark is not included.
JOECOAKTKeep valid symbols
Ampersands and hyphens can be significant.
P&PCY-ZD“The” has an exception
Keep it when only one word follows; otherwise leave it out when deriving the control.
WILLTHEHThe “dba” label itself is not part of the control. The examples above explain corporate-name rules, not a universal calculator for every entity. The applicable name line and rules can differ by entity or IRS record; do not infer a control from the EIN’s prefix alone.
Read a match for what it is.
A matching code is not the same as an identical legal name.
A match on the EIN and applicable name control does not, by itself, establish that the complete submitted name is the legal name on file, that two names identify the same entity, or that the person using an EIN is authorized to do so.
About refunds
When different business names return a match for the same EIN in accordance with IRS name-control rules, that alone does not indicate a verification-service error and is not grounds for a refund. Other refund circumstances are governed by the Terms of Service, subject to applicable law.
This does not exclude separate issues involving incorrect charges, failure to provide the agreed service, or legal rights that cannot be waived.
Need to confirm the full name?
- Start with the IRS record.Check the full business name and EIN on the IRS EIN assignment notice or other IRS confirmation. Do not substitute a brand name without checking the underlying record.
- Check identity separately.Compare relevant formation or registration records and the documents supporting any name change. Resolve differences before treating two names as the same entity.
- Resolve uncertainty at the source.If the name control or name record is unclear, seek clarification from the IRS or an appropriately authorized tax professional.