Massachusetts lesson 4 of 6
Get an EIN and open a bank account
Massachusetts does not issue its own separate business identification number at formation. Your federal EIN is what the state Department of Revenue, banks and payment processors will use.
Applying for the EIN
Apply directly on the IRS website once the Certificate of Organization is approved. It is free. If the responsible party has a US social security number or ITIN, the number is usually issued immediately online.
Opening the account
Bring the filed Certificate of Organization, the EIN confirmation letter, your operating agreement and identification for signers to a Massachusetts bank. Requirements vary a little between banks, so confirm what your chosen bank wants before the appointment.
Given the $500 formation cost and $500 annual report, keeping business and personal money strictly separate matters even more, since courts look at that separation when deciding whether the liability shield holds.
Registering with the Department of Revenue
Separately from the EIN, register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue for any state tax obligations that apply, such as withholding if you have employees or sales tax if you sell taxable goods.
Key takeaways
- The EIN is free and comes from the IRS.
- Massachusetts banks generally want the Certificate of Organization, the EIN letter and an operating agreement.
- Register separately with the Department of Revenue for any applicable state taxes.
Official sources
Or let us file your Massachusetts LLC for you
Everything above is yours to use for free. If you would rather hand it over, we prepare and file the Certificate of Organization, act as your registered agent, and track your ongoing deadlines.
Last reviewed: September 2026 - reviewed by Gullia Filing Legal & Formation Team