What is Name Control?

Name control is a four-character identifier assigned by the IRS when a business requests an Employer Identification Number (EIN). It is derived from the legal name of the business as listed on Form SS-4, the Application for Employer Identification Number.

When you e-file your return or extension, the IRS compares the name control and EIN listed on the return with the EIN/name control in their records. If the name control or EIN doesn't match the records, your return/extension will be rejected.

For more information about name control, click here.