EIN issuing process changes, again. (IRS News).

Now there are two ways to get an EIN: phone [phone], Mon-Fri., 7:30 am. - 5:30 p.m., EST; or fax a copy of the SS-4 Application for EIN to [phone].

The December 2001 version of the form contains a space for a third-party designation.

IRS Publication 1635, "Understanding Your EIN," provides general guidance on EINs and has flow charts to assist users on when they may need to get a new number for each type of entity. The publication also covers how to fill out Form SS-4. You can download it at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1635.pdf.