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Why Should I TIN Match?

Table of Contents

What is TIN Match?

It’s a tool to confirm vendor name and taxpayer identification number combinations. When you request a TIN match, we check your combination against the IRS database. The match will either be accepted, or rejected.

Can I Do TIN Match Myself?

Yes; you can register with the IRS E-Services tool. The process can take a few weeks to complete. The IRS must approve your right to request matching services. The IRS needs to confirm your SSN and name along with some tax details you enter. If all goes well, they will send you a login ID and password via USPS.

Once you receive the login, you will have several steps to complete:

1.       Login to the site.
2.       Select the organization you will represent during the session.
3.       Select TIN Matching.
4.       Accept the TIN Matching Terms of Agreement.
5.       Choose to begin an Interactive or Bulk Session.
  •         Interactive Session: Enter 1-25 requests, receive immediate results
  •         Bulk Sessions: 25+ results, receive results in a day or two
You should set up a database or master spreadsheet to track the results.

An Easier Way

Tax1099.com offers TIN Match. You can request TIN matching after you enter your vendors. Tax1099.com checks the combination against the IRS database using a bulk session. Your results will be returned within 48 hours. You will get a status for each match requested, either accepted or rejected. The results are stored in your account on Tax1099.com.

Another TIN matching option is Exakto.com. Use Exakto for immediate results. Exakto.com offers a real-time version of the TIN Match using the interactive session. The site also uses the bulk session if you have a large number of requests. The results remain in your account for reference later.

Is TIN Match Necessary?

The IRS validates filed information against their TIN database. When a vendor-TIN match comes back rejected, the IRS issues a CP2100 or CP2100A. If you receive this notification, you must issue a B-notice to the recipient. Later, you may receive a penalty notice.

Penalties for filing incorrect information can be up to $250 per occurrence. Even for a small filer, a few of those will add up to an amount you don’t want to pay. The largest penalty is $3,000,000, with a smaller maximum for small businesses.

Being proactive and using a TIN Match service can help you/your clients avoid those penalties. Requesting a TIN match upon hiring a new worker provides even more protection. Running the match immediately encourages the vendor to comply.

Compliance Is Key

The government has increased inspection of filers in the last few years. Using tools like TIN Match help you stay in compliance. Proactive TIN matching is something the IRS recommends. The IRS also looks for your TIN Match process when they develop a penalty notice. Checking the TIN/name combinations can help you reduce the penalty in the first place.

Don’t risk the penalties. Request a TIN match as soon as you can. 

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