Frequently Asked Questions

Does a pack or troop need its own tax identification number?  If so, where do we get it?  All units need a tax ID number (also referred to as an EIN—Employer Identification Number.  Units should NOT use the Social Security number of an adult leader.  If they do, the IRS will attribute all banking transactions, unit purchases, etc. to that leader as an individual.  Units  may use the tax ID number of their chartering organization, if given permission.  This may be especially useful for the unit if that organization is tax-exempt.  Most units obtain their own tax ID number by completing IRS Form SS-4.  The current form and instructions are available on the IRS Web site - www.irs.gov.  The IRS now allows you to immediately receive a unit EIN, either over the phone or online.  The IRS tax ID hotline is 800.829.4933; on the IRS website’s homepage, look for the Online EIN Application link.