Gathering your documents - Karat Help Center

Business formation documents

If your business is registered as an LLC or corporation, you may be asked to provide state-filed formation documents confirming that your company is properly registered. Examples include Articles of Organization, Articles of Incorporation, Certificate of Formation. These documents should show registration with the appropriate state authority (such as the Secretary of State) in the U.S. state or territory where your business is formed. If you operate as a sole proprietor, formal formation documents may not be required.

IRS-issued EIN documentation

If your business has an Employer Identification Number (EIN), we may request proof of issuance from the IRS. Acceptable documentation may include:

• IRS CP-575 EIN confirmation letter
• IRS SS-4 confirmation letter
• Form 147C

If submitting an SS-4, it must be the IRS confirmation, not just the initial application form.

How to find your EIN

If you need to locate your Employer Identification Number (EIN) to complete your Karat application, there are several places you can check.

• Review IRS correspondence. Look for letters or notices you’ve received from the IRS, such as your CP-575 or SS-4 confirmation letter. Your EIN is typically listed on these documents.
• Check prior filings or applications. If you used your EIN to apply for a business license, permit, or bank account, the issuing agency or related paperwork may have your EIN on file.
• Contact the IRS directly. You can call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 800-829-4933 (Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time). An IRS representative will ask questions to verify your identity before providing your EIN.

If you recently applied for an EIN and are still waiting for confirmation, you may need to wait until the IRS processes your request before completing your application.

Government-issued identification

We may request identification for:

• Any owner with 25% or more ownership
• At least one individual with operational control of the business

Identification documents must include your photo, date of birth, issue and expiration dates, and an identification number. Examples of acceptable identification:

• For U.S. citizens: driver’s license, state ID, U.S. passport, passport card
• For U.S. permanent residents or non-citizens: permanent resident card, employment authorization card
• For international applicants: passport

Having these documents ready can help speed up the review process if additional verification is required.