Skip to main content

What Is an RFI?

Learn what an RFI (Request for Information) is, what IRS document you need to provide, and how to upload it during or after onboarding in DaySmart Payroll.

Written by Kate Biel

📝 Overview

An RFI is a request for an IRS document that confirms your business's legal name, Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), and filing address. Completing the RFI is required before your account can be activated and payroll can run.


🔍 What Is a CP-575 Letter?

The most commonly accepted document for an RFI is the CP-575. This is an IRS notice confirming that your business has been issued a FEIN. It includes:

  • Your FEIN, the nine-digit number used to conduct business

  • Your legal business name and filing address

  • The federal tax forms your business is required to file

Example of a CP-575 letter with FEIN, business name, and filing address visible


🛠️ How to Upload Your RFI Document

There are two ways to upload your RFI document, depending on where you are in the onboarding process.

During Onboarding

Click the arrow to learn more

If the RFI is triggered during onboarding, an additional step labeled "Verify your business details" will appear in your onboarding flow. Select Start to upload the document.

Onboarding screen showing "Verify your business details" step with Start button

After Onboarding Is Complete

Click the arrow to learn more

If the RFI is required after you've completed onboarding, navigate to your Dashboard and select Start next to "Additional documentation is required."

Dashboard screen showing "Additional documentation is required" with Start button

After you upload the document, our team will review it and follow up if anything additional is needed. Once the review is complete, your account status will be updated to Ready.


❓Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Find answers to common questions or additional details that may not be covered in the main instructions.

Click the arrow to view frequently asked questions

How long does it take to complete an RFI?

Click the arrow to see the answer

Approximately 48 hours after you've submitted the requested document. Our team will follow up if additional information is needed.

What if I can't find my CP-575 letter?

Click the arrow to see the answer

If you've misplaced your CP-575, you can request a FEIN Verification Letter (147C) from the IRS as an alternative. To request one, call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax line at (800) 829-4933, then follow the menu prompts. Note that phone menu options may change, so listen carefully when prompted.

Once connected to an agent, let them know you've misplaced your CP-575 and need a 147C letter. The agent will ask a few security questions and give you the option to receive the letter by fax or mail.

💡 Pro Tip: If you have access to a fax, request the 147C by fax for faster delivery. Without a fax, delivery by mail can take 4 to 6 weeks. If you don't have a dedicated fax number, services like efax.com, myfax.com, or hellofax.com can provide one.

Example of a completed 147C letter

What happens after I submit the RFI document?

Click the arrow to see the answer

Our team reviews the document and follows up if anything additional is needed. Once the review is complete, your account status is updated to Ready and you can proceed with payroll.

Will my account be on hold while the RFI is being reviewed?

Click the arrow to see the answer

Yes. Your account will remain in a pending status until the RFI review is complete. This is a required compliance step before DaySmart Payroll can process payments on your behalf.

What if I receive an RFI but I've already completed onboarding?

Click the arrow to see the answer

RFIs can be triggered at any point if additional verification is needed. If you've already completed onboarding, upload the required document through your Dashboard by selecting Start next to "Additional documentation is required." The process is the same regardless of when the RFI is triggered.

Did this answer your question?