> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.bolto.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Company Setup (US Payroll)

# Company Setup (US Payroll)

This guide walks through the information required to set up US payroll in Bolto.

The goal is to reduce friction during initial setup by explaining **what each field means**, **where to find it**, and **what to do if you don’t have it yet**.

***

## Company Information

### Company Phone Number

You’ll be asked to provide a company phone number during setup.

**If your company doesn’t have a dedicated phone number yet**, you can use:

* A founder or operator’s work phone number
* A virtual phone number (e.g. Google Voice)

This number is primarily used for verification and administrative purposes, not employee outreach.

***

## Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)

### What Is a FEIN?

A FEIN (also called an EIN) is a unique number issued by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. It is required to run US payroll.

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### How to Find Your FEIN

You can usually find your FEIN on:

* IRS confirmation letters (CP 575 or 147C)
* Previously filed tax returns
* Bank documents used to open a business account

If you work with an accountant or bookkeeper, they will almost always have this on file.

***

### How to Verify Your FEIN

Bolto does not automatically verify FEINs in real time.

If you need to confirm your FEIN:

* Check official IRS correspondence
* Contact the IRS Business & Specialty Tax line
* Confirm with your accountant or payroll provider

Avoid guessing — incorrect FEINs can delay payroll setup.

***

## State Registrations & State IDs

Some states require additional registration before payroll can be processed.

### When State IDs Are Required

State IDs (such as California’s EDD number) are required when:

* You have employees working in that state
* The state requires employer registration for payroll taxes

Not every state requires the same identifiers.

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### Where to Find Your State ID

State IDs are typically issued when you:

* Register your business with the state
* Register for state payroll or unemployment taxes

They can usually be found on:

* State tax authority correspondence
* Online state employer portals
* Prior payroll filings

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### What If You Don’t Have a State ID Yet?

If you haven’t registered yet:

* You can proceed with setup in Bolto
* Complete state registration in parallel
* Add the state ID once it’s issued

Bolto can guide you on which states require registration before payroll can run.

***

## Payroll Agent Section

### When to Leave This Blank

The payroll agent section is optional.

You can **leave this blank** if:

* You do not use a third-party payroll agent
* You are managing payroll directly through Bolto

Only fill this section out if:

* An external firm is authorized to act on your behalf for payroll filings

***

## Common Setup Questions

**Our company doesn’t have a phone number — what should I put?**\
Use a founder’s work number or a virtual phone number.

**How do I find my FEIN?**\
Check IRS confirmation letters, tax filings, or ask your accountant.

**How can I verify my FEIN number?**\
Reference official IRS documents or contact the IRS directly.

**Where do I get my EDD number?**\
From the state where you registered for payroll taxes (e.g. California EDD).

**Do I need a state ID for every state?**\
No. Requirements vary by state and by worker location.

**Where should I find this information outside of messaging the IRS?**\
Your accountant, prior payroll provider, bank documents, or state portals.

**Do I need to put anything in the payroll agent section?**\
No — leave it blank unless you use an authorized third-party agent.

***

If you’re unsure about any field during setup, you can proceed and update details later, or reach out to the Bolto team for guidance.