Why is it so hard to find out if a company is a S-corp

[schirallicpa]

Why can't we just have a simple online look-up.  Put in their EIN and find out.  I have been on phone with the most inept IRS person who could not take any ID # from me without transposing it, and then told me my POA did not authorize me to know this information.  What?  

[Lee B]

"How do I check EIN status?

Call the IRS. The best number to call is (+1) 800-829-4933.

When you hear the various menu options, select option 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 1 for EIN inquiries, and then option 3."

[schirallicpa]

Yep - I had to call back.  The first round of agent was absolutely not helpful.  The second agent was helpful and even quite nice.