I was setting up my LLC and got confused by all the third-party sites. I ended up paying $99 to a service to get an EIN, but then I found out later that you can get one directly from the IRS for free. I feel pretty dumb. Has anyone else done this? Is there any way to get the money back or is it just a lesson learned?
EIN
I accidentally paid for an EIN service I didn't need
Probably a lesson learned. Those sites pay for ads to be at the top of search results. They look official enough to trick a lot of people. You can try calling their customer service and asking for a refund, but don't hold your breath.
If they haven't submitted the application yet, you might have a shot at canceling. Did you get the EIN already or are you still waiting?
I already got the EIN letter from them. So I guess it's done.
That stinks. For what it's worth, the $99 might be worth it to some people who don't want to deal with the IRS form. But if you're comfortable filling out paperwork, yeaah, it's an expensive lesson.
I almost did the same thing last year. The site I landed on had a countdown timer and everything. It felt urgent. I ended up backing out at the last second because I read the fine print.
You can file a complaint with the FTC if you feel the site was deceptive, but I doubt you'll get get your money back. At least the EIN is valid.
I used one of those services for my first LLC and felt silly afterward too. Now I just file directly. Don't beat yourself up over it.
What was the name of the service? Might help others avoid avoid it.
It was called [redacted by admin] - I don't want to give them free advertising, but it was one of those 'LLC formation made easy' sites.
The worst part is some of those services charge a monthly fee after the initial payment. Make sure you didn't sign up for a subscription.
Good point. Check your bank statement for any recurring charges.
I'd also check if they filed anything else on your behalf, like a registered agent service you didn't ask for.