EIN Reference Number 101 to 115 (and How to Resolve Them)

What is EIN Reference Number 101 and what is EIN reference number 115? If you take the error of 101 and 115 numbered EIN references, what should you do? When applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS online system, applicants sometimes encounter an error message known as a “Reference Number.” Each code indicates a specific issue that prevents the EIN from being issued instantly. Understanding what these codes mean—and how to fix them—can save valuable time and ensure your business formation process continues smoothly.

Below, we explain two of the most frequently seen IRS reference codes: Reference Number 101 and Reference Number 115. Learn what they mean, why they appear, and how to successfully resolve them.

What Does EIN Reference Number 101 Mean and How to Resolve Them?

When applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN), the IRS system automatically checks your submitted business name against existing records nationwide. If it finds another entity with a name that is too similar, it triggers Reference Number 101 — a signal that your application requires manual review.

This does not mean your application has been denied; rather, the IRS pauses automated processing to prevent duplicate or confusingly similar business names in its database. Even if your company name is legally approved at the state level, it may still resemble another registered name elsewhere in the U.S. Well, What is EIN Reference Number 101 and how to resolve it?

To resolve EIN Reference Number 101, you’ll need to send your Form SS-4 and your LLC approval document (Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation) directly to the IRS by fax or mail. Once reviewed, your EIN will be manually assigned and mailed to your official business address.

What Does EIN Reference Number 101 Mean?

Reference Number 101 indicates a business name conflict or duplication error. This means the IRS database has detected a name that is too similar to another registered entity. Even if your LLC name is unique within your state, it may still resemble another company’s name on a national level, causing the system to stop the automatic EIN assignment.

Why EIN Reference Number 101 Appears?

This error typically happens when multiple entities across different states share a closely matching name or when the IRS records flag your chosen business name for manual review. It doesn’t mean your EIN request is rejected—it simply requires human verification by the IRS to avoid duplication.

How to Resolve EIN Reference Number 101?

The solution is straightforward. The IRS must manually process your EIN application. To proceed:

• Download and complete Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number).
• Include your LLC approval document (Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation).
• Fax the completed form and documents to 855-641-6935 or mail them to the IRS.

Once reviewed, the IRS will assign your EIN manually and send confirmation to your mailing address. This process usually takes several business days, depending on workload.

What is EIN Reference Number 115 and How to Resolve Them?

When applying for an Employer Identification Number (new EIN online), you may encounter EIN Reference Number 115 error code, a system flag that indicates a potential mismatch or error in identifying the Responsible Party on your application. This code often appears when the IRS database believes the listed individual is deceased, based on outdated or conflicting records.

While this error can sound alarming, it is usually caused by incorrect or outdated data — such as a mistyped SSN, an expired ITIN, or a mismatch between IRS and Social Security records. It doesn’t necessarily mean the Responsible Party is actually deceased; rather, it signals that manual verification by the IRS is required before the EIN can be issued.

By contacting the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line and confirming your identity, you can quickly resolve EIN Reference Number 115 and complete your EIN registration without delay.

What Does EIN Reference Number 115 Mean?

The EIN Reference Number 115 occurs when the IRS system’s automatic validation shows that the Responsible Party is deceased according to government records. In some cases, this happens due to outdated or mismatched data across IRS and Social Security databases, especially if the SSN or ITIN was entered incorrectly.

Why Reference Number 115 Appears?

This issue arises when the IRS runs a “date of death” check for the Responsible Party listed in the application and receives a match. However, it can also appear by mistake if the system incorrectly associates your SSN or ITIN with another individual’s record. It’s a data-matching error, not necessarily a reflection of the applicant’s real status.

How to Resolve EIN Reference Number 115?

To correct this error, you’ll need to verify your identity directly with the IRS. Here’s what to do:

• Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 (Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. local time).
• When prompted, press 1 → 1 → 3 to reach a live IRS operator.
• Explain that you received Reference Number 115 and confirm that the Responsible Party is not deceased.
• If requested, complete and fax Form SS-4 to 855-641-6935 for manual verification.

The IRS may require additional proof of identity (such as a copy of a government-issued ID or SSN card) before approving the EIN.

Remember That!

According to the IRS Internal Revenue Manual (IRM 21.7.13), calls regarding Reference Numbers 101 and 115 are routed directly to customer service representatives for live assistance, while other reference numbers typically trigger automated messages with instructions. This means these two errors are more complex and always require human intervention to resolve.

Tip: If your EIN application is pending or rejected due to Reference Number 101 or 115, don’t panic—these are fixable issues. Simply follow the steps above or reapply using Form SS-4 to complete the process successfully. (file form ss-4 by mail)

Frequently Asked Questions About EIN Reference Number 101 to EIN Reference Number 115

When applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS online system, some applicants encounter error messages known as EIN Reference Numbers. These codes indicate that the system detected an issue preventing automatic approval of your EIN application. Two of the most common examples are EIN Reference Number 101 and EIN Reference Number 115.

How do I fix error 101 on EIN?

Error 101 indicates a business name conflict. Complete Form SS-4 and send it with your LLC formation documentnby fax (855-641-6935) or mail. The IRS will manually review and assign your EIN after clearing the duplicate name.

How many EINs can I apply for in one day?

The IRS limits applications to one EIN per day per responsible party. This applies to online, fax, and mail submissions.

What is reference code 101 on EIN?

Reference Code 101 means your business name is too similar to another in the IRS database. It is not a denial; it triggers manual verification before issuing the EIN.

How much does an EIN cost?

An EIN is free from the IRS. Apply online or submit Form SS-4 by fax or mail. Avoid third-party fees for this service. Applying for an EIN online with EIN ITIN com makes you had your EIN easily.

Why can’t I apply for an EIN number?

You may be blocked by site maintenance, incorrect details, or system flags like Reference 101 or 115. Recheck your entries and try again during IRS business hours. Contact the IRS if issues persist.

Why is the EIN application not working?

The online tool can fail due to timeouts, incompatible browsers, or downtime. Update your browser, clear cache, and apply during operating hours. Manual review may be needed for flagged cases.

Why is my EIN being rejected?

Rejections often stem from incorrect entity data, duplicate names, or identity mismatches. Correct errors and submit Form SS-4 for manual processing if needed.

How do I fix an error on my taxes?

File an amended return. Use Form 1040-X for individual returns or the correct business amendment form. Keep records and update your EIN or business name with the IRS before resubmitting.

What does EIN Reference Number 115 mean?

EIN Reference Number 115 indicates that the IRS system has flagged the Responsible Party as deceased. This happens when IRS and Social Security databases show mismatched or outdated information related to your SSN or ITIN for your business entity. It usually does not mean the applicant is actually deceased, but that the data must be manually verified before the EIN is issued.

Why did I get EIN Reference Number 115?

You received Reference Number 115 because the IRS validation process found a potential “date of death” record linked to the Responsible Party’s information. This often occurs when a Social Security Number or ITIN is mistyped, expired, or incorrectly matched to another individual in the IRS system.

How can I fix EIN Reference Number 115?

To resolve this issue, contact the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 (Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. local time). When prompted, press 1 → 1 → 3 to reach an agent. Explain that you received EIN Reference Number 115  (EIN error code 115) and confirm that the Responsible Party is not deceased. If requested, fax Form SS-4 and supporting identification documents to 855-641-6935 for manual processing.

Do I need to reapply for my EIN after getting Reference Number 115?

In most cases, you do not need to submit a new application. Once you verify your identity with the IRS and send any requested documentation,
your existing EIN application will be manually processed. The IRS will then mail your EIN confirmation letter to your business address.

Can I avoid EIN Reference Number 115 in future applications?

Yes. Double-check that the SSN or individual taxpayer identification number you enter for the Responsible Party is accurate, current, and matches the IRS and Social Security records.
Ensure that names are spelled correctly and that you use the correct identification number for the right individual.

What if the IRS says the Responsible Party is deceased but they are not?

This can happen due to data-matching errors between the IRS and SSA. Provide proof of identity such as a copy of the SSN card, driver’s license, or passport.
Once verified, the IRS will remove the incorrect “deceased” flag and process your EIN application.

How long does it take to resolve EIN Reference Number 115?

After you contact the IRS and submit the required documents, manual processing usually takes 5–10 business days. However, processing time may vary depending on IRS workload and verification needs.

Does EIN Reference Number 115 mean my EIN application was denied?

No. EIN Reference Number 115 does not mean your application is denied. It simply means the IRS needs to verify the Responsible Party’s identity before assigning your EIN.
Once verified, your EIN will be issued and mailed to your registered address.