Opening a bank account will allow your organization to be more financially structured. To avoid potential problems with taxes and the IRS, it is best if the account is opened under the organization's name. In order to do this, you must fill out the SS-4 form. This form is an application for an "Employer Identification Number." This will establish your business/organization tax account. You will then send the form to the Department of Treasury, and they will send you the Employer Identification Number which will allow you to open a bank account in your organization's name. It may sound complicated, but the steps are necessary if your club wants to purchase supplies, hold events, and seek reimbursement for future projects from the ASUI Activities Board.

The Employer Identification Number form is available online

Student groups may NOT use the University of Idaho EIN to open a bank account. Groups that do so cannot receive reimbursements from ASUI and risk losing their status as a registered organization.

How to apply for a bank account*

You can apply by phone, fax, on-line or mail depending on how soon you need the number.

• Phone: Fill out the Employer Identification Form first so that you have all the information on hand. The number to call is: 1-800-829-4933. Operating hours are 7:30am - 5:30pm.
• Fax: Complete the form and fax it to the IRS. The number to fax it to is: 215-516-3990. The number is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• On-Line: www.irs.gov
• Mail: Complete and send form at least 4-5 weeks before you need the number. Sign and date the application and mail it to:
  Attn: EIN Operation
  Philadelphia, PA 19255

After receiving an EIN, your club can open an account at any bank you choose. Be sure that you keep the bank informed about changes in officers/advisors so that they have the most current authorization information.