The IRS Wants to Fax You Something — Here's How to Receive It
Don't have a fax machine? You don't need one. Get a fax number in 30 seconds and receive IRS documents directly to your email.
Last updated: May 2026
When Does the IRS Fax You?
The IRS will fax you documents in three scenarios:
- Letter 147C (EIN verification) — you request it by phone and the agent sends it during the call
- SS-4 fax-back — you faxed Form SS-4 for a new EIN and the IRS faxes back your assigned number in about 4 business days
- Letter 385C (S-Corp verification) — you request it by phone and ask for fax delivery
In all cases, you need to provide a fax number. Without one, your only option is mail — which takes 4-6 weeks.
Why You Need a Fax Number for the IRS
The IRS does not send documents by email — ever. For security reasons, your options are fax (instant during the call) or mail (4-6 weeks). If you're calling the IRS for your EIN verification letter and the agent asks "do you have a private and secure fax?" — you need a number ready. An online fax service works perfectly. The IRS doesn't distinguish between a physical fax machine and a cloud fax number.
Get a Fax Number in 30 Seconds
FaxTerra gives you a dedicated US fax number for $4.99/month. When the IRS faxes your document, you're notified by email and on your phone within seconds, and can view or download it as a PDF from your inbox. No hardware, no phone line. Set it up before your IRS call — you'll be ready when the agent asks for your fax number. Cancel anytime if you only need it for one document.
What You Can Receive from the IRS by Fax
- Letter 147C (EIN Verification Letter) — confirms your existing EIN. Most commonly needed when a bank requires proof of EIN. The IRS faxes it while you're on the phone.
- SS-4 Fax-Back — when you apply for a new EIN by faxing Form SS-4, the IRS faxes back a cover sheet with your assigned EIN in about 4 business days.
- Letter 385C (S-Corp Verification) — confirms your S-Corp election status. Available by fax on request.
- Replacement for a lost CP 575 EIN confirmation — the IRS won't reissue CP 575, but they will fax a 147C as the official substitute. Banks accept 147C in place of CP 575.
For the full picture of what the IRS accepts by fax and what it faxes back, see How to Fax the IRS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the IRS fax my 147C letter to an online fax number?
Yes. The IRS accepts any valid US fax number — physical machine or cloud service. When the agent asks for your fax number, give them your FaxTerra number. You're notified by email and on your phone, and can view or download the document as a PDF from your inbox.
Do I need a fax number before I call the IRS?
Yes — have it ready before you call. IRS hold times can exceed an hour, and you don't want to hang up to set up a fax number. Get your FaxTerra number first, then call.
How much does it cost to receive a fax from the IRS?
FaxTerra's Starter plan is $4.99/month and includes a dedicated fax number for receiving. You can cancel after you receive your document if you only need it once.
Can I receive the fax on my phone?
Yes. When a fax arrives, FaxTerra notifies you by email and by push notification on the mobile app. Open it on your phone, computer, or tablet and view or download it as a PDF — anywhere you have your inbox.
What if the IRS fax fails?
Stay on the line. If the fax doesn't go through, the IRS agent can retry immediately. Make sure your FaxTerra number is active and the account is set up before the call.