Delaware State File Number: What It Is & How It's Used
What is the Delaware state file number?
The Delaware state file number is the number that the state of Delaware issues to each new company at the time of formation. Your company file number will be formatted with seven numbers; for example, 1234567.
Each new Delaware company will have a state file number one digit higher than the company before it. It is the number that you can use to identify your company when dealing with the Delaware Secretary of State.
What is my Delaware state file number used for?
Your Delaware state file number is used to identify your company in the Delaware Division of Corporations' database.
Delaware companies can change their names, they can change their Directors, they can change the number of shares and par value issued, they can change their Registered Agent and address, but they cannot change their Delaware state file number. You will only receive a new company file number if you decide to create a brand new LLC or corporation.
Is the Delaware state file number the same as my Tax ID number?
No, the Delaware state file number is not your Federal Tax ID number, often called an EIN. The Federal Tax ID number is the federal government's—not a state government's—identifying number.
The EIN is a nine-digit number formatted with a dash after the first two numbers. These first two numbers indicate the location where the company will do business and pay their federal tax.
Think of the federal tax ID number as the social security number (SSN) for the business. It is used to open U.S. bank accounts, hire U.S. employees and operate lawful business activities in the U.S.
How do I locate my Delaware file number?
The Delaware file number can be located in several different places. You can find it on the cover letter we send with your approved company documents and on your receipt. The state will stamp it in the margin of your filed Certificate of Formation or Certificate of Incorporation. Furthermore, Harvard Business Services, Inc can help you with a quick Delaware state file number lookup for your company.
You can form a Delaware LLC or corporation with our team and we'll make sure to point out your company's state file number when you receive the approved formation document.
(See an example of a Certificate of Formation below):
*Disclaimer*: Harvard Business Services, Inc. is neither a law firm nor an accounting firm and, even in cases where the author is an attorney, or a tax professional, nothing in this article constitutes legal or tax advice. This article provides general commentary on, and analysis of, the subject addressed. We strongly advise that you consult an attorney or tax professional to receive legal or tax guidance tailored to your specific circumstances. Any action taken or not taken based on this article is at your own risk. If an article cites or provides a link to third-party sources or websites, Harvard Business Services, Inc. is not responsible for and makes no representations regarding such source’s content or accuracy. Opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of Harvard Business Services, Inc.
There are 7 comments left for Delaware State File Number: What It Is & How It's Used
Davin. Clegg said: Thursday, July 13, 2017This is Davin Clegg how do i get my filer number for my bank account. Thank you
HBS Staff replied: Tuesday, July 18, 2017If you provide us with your company name, we can give you your Delaware filing number. Feel free to call us at 1-800-345-2677 during normal business hours, Monday - Friday. However, typically the banks do not request the Delaware file number. Banks traditionally need your IRS issued Tax ID Number (EIN).
Mark S. Staniscia said: Tuesday, February 7, 2017How can I find out who the secretary and president of a corporation formed in Delaware in 1970 was any info. appreciated Thanks Mark
HBS Staff replied: Tuesday, February 7, 2017You can try to obtain a copy of the Annual Report from the Delaware Secretary of State.
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