Plain-English meaning
What reference 112 means
The estate you are applying for already has an EIN on file with the IRS. [1]
For the IRS's own wording of this reference number, read the source directly: IRS Pub 1635 (PDF) and the Form SS-4 instructions.
Three patterns we see most
Most common causes
- Executor/personal representative previously obtained an EIN for the estate.
- Different executor reapplying without checking IRS records.
Step-by-step
How to fix it
- 1Check estate records for prior Form 1041 filings or 147C letter.
- 2Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line to retrieve the existing EIN.
- 3Do not apply for a new EIN for the same estate.
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client-side · no logging112
IRS reference number 112
Estate EIN — already issued
Use existing EINSame day if records found
What it actually means
The estate you are applying for already has an EIN on file with the IRS. [1]
Most common causes
- Executor/personal representative previously obtained an EIN for the estate.
- Different executor reapplying without checking IRS records.
Step-by-step fix
- 1Check estate records for prior Form 1041 filings or 147C letter.
- 2Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line to retrieve the existing EIN.
- 3Do not apply for a new EIN for the same estate.
citeIRS Pub 1635cite26 CFR §301.6109-1citeForm SS-4 Inst.
Informational, not tax advice. The IRS issues all EINs — we do not. Talk to a CPA or EA →
Expectation-setting
Only the IRS issues EINs. No service — formation operator, attorney, CPA, or EIN-resolution shop — issues EINs. What they sell is the labor of refiling SS-4 on your behalf, not a different outcome.
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Expectation-setting
Only the IRS issues EINs. No service — formation operator, attorney, CPA, or EIN-resolution shop — issues EINs. What they sell is the labor of refiling SS-4 on your behalf, not a different outcome.
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