Overview

A Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS or the Social Security Administration (for a Social Security number) for tax purpose. When businesses engage in IRS TIN matching, they verify a payee's tax identification number (TIN) by comparing it against the records maintained by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

TIN matching serves as the verification process for EINs and SSNs, ensures the accuracy of TIN/name combinations for payer and payee data. Any inaccuracies in TINs may lead to the rejection of forms or prompt notices from the IRS or SSA. By undergoing this process, filers can prevent IRS penalties and B-Notices due to the absence of TINs or inaccurate Name/TIN combinations.