Starting a U.S. business as a non-US resident can open many doors. You can form a U.S. LLC, sell to American customers, work with U.S. payment processors, open business accounts, and build a stronger international business presence.
But after forming your LLC, one of the most important steps is getting an EIN, also known as an Employer Identification Number or Tax ID.
An EIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to identify a business for tax and reporting purposes.
It works like a business tax ID. If you are a non-US resident with a U.S. LLC, you may need an EIN to open a business bank account, file U.S. tax forms, work with payment platforms, hire employees, or verify your business.
The good news is that non-US residents can get an EIN even without a Social Security Number, also known as an SSN, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, also known as an ITIN.
The process is different from the regular online EIN application, but it is still possible.
In this guide, you will learn how to get an EIN for non-US residents step by step, what documents you need, how to complete Form SS-4, how to apply by phone, fax, or mail, and which mistakes to avoid.
What Is an EIN Tax ID?
An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is a federal tax identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service.
It is used to identify a business entity for tax purposes. The IRS uses EINs for businesses, employers, corporations, partnerships, LLCs, trusts, estates, and other entities that need a federal tax number.
An EIN has nine digits and usually appears in this format:
12-3456789
For a business, an EIN is similar to how an SSN identifies an individual taxpayer. It helps the IRS track tax filings, payroll records, business accounts, and other federal tax activity.
For non-US residents, an EIN is especially important because many U.S. business services will ask for it before approving your account.
You may need an EIN to:
• Open a U.S. business bank account
• File U.S. federal tax forms
• Work with payment processors
• Hire employees in the United States
• Apply for business credit
• Register with some marketplaces
• Complete tax forms such as W-8 or 1040-NR related filings
• Prove that your LLC is a real business entity
If you own a U.S. LLC as a non-resident, getting an EIN is usually one of the first things you should do after your LLC is approved.
Can You Get an EIN Without an SSN or ITIN?
Yes, non-US residents can get an EIN.
You do not always need an SSN or ITIN to apply for an EIN. This is one of the most common questions foreign founders ask.
If you are a non-US resident and you formed a U.S. LLC, you can apply for an EIN by submitting IRS Form SS-International applicants may also be able to apply by phone through the IRS international EIN phone line.
However, non-US residents usually cannot use the standard online EIN application if they do not have a legal residence, principal place of business, principal office, or agency in the United States or U.S. territories.
The IRS instructions say such applicants should use another application method instead.
This means many non-US founders must apply through:
• Phone
• Fax
• Mail
The online EIN system is mainly useful for applicants who qualify under the IRS online application rules.
Why Non-US Residents Need an EIN?
An EIN is not just a tax number. It is often a key part of making your U.S. LLC functional.
Many non-US residents form a U.S. LLC but then get stuck when banks, payment processors, or platforms ask for a Tax ID. That Tax ID is usually the EIN.
You may need an EIN for several reasons.
1. Opening a Business Bank Account
Most U.S. banks and fintech platforms ask for an EIN before opening a business account for an LLC.
Even if the bank allows foreign owners, it usually wants to verify the company with an EIN, LLC approval documents, and owner identification.
2. Filing U.S. Tax Forms
If your LLC has U.S. tax filing obligations, an EIN helps identify the business on tax forms.
A foreign-owned single-member LLC may have specific IRS filing requirements, even when it has no employees. Multi-member LLCs may also need the EIN for partnership tax filings.
3. Working With Payment Processors
Platforms like Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, Shopify Payments, and other processors often ask for a business Tax ID.
An EIN can help verify your LLC and support your application.
4. Hiring Employees
If your LLC hires employees in the United States, an EIN is required for payroll tax reporting.
5. Building Business Credibility
An EIN makes your LLC look more complete and professional.
It shows that your company is registered for federal tax identification and can operate as a proper business entity.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for an EIN as a Non-US Resident?
Non-US residents can usually apply for an EIN if they have a valid business reason.
Common eligible applicants include:
• Non-US resident who formed a U.S. LLC
• Foreign owner of a U.S. corporation
• Foreign company registered to do business in the U.S.
• Non-US resident starting a U.S. business
• Foreign entrepreneur opening a U.S. business account
• Foreign-owned single-member LLC
• Foreign-owned multi-member LLC
• Foreign entity needing a U.S. tax identification number
You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for an EIN.
You also do not need to live in the United States.
However, your application must be accurate, and the responsible party must be clearly identified.
What Is a Responsible Party?
The responsible party is the person who owns or controls the entity.
For an LLC, the responsible party is usually the main owner, managing member, or person who controls the business.
The IRS uses the responsible party information to identify the individual behind the business entity.
For a single-member LLC, the responsible party is usually the owner.
For a multi-member LLC, the responsible party may be the managing member or person with the most control over the business.
The responsible party should be a real person, not just another company, unless specific rules apply.
When completing Form SS-4, the responsible party is entered on Line 7a. Line 7b asks for the responsible party’s SSN, ITIN, or EIN. If the responsible party does not have an SSN or ITIN, non-US applicants often write Foreign on that line.
Documents Needed to Get an EIN as a Non-US Resident
Before applying for an EIN, you should prepare your documents and business details.
You do not want to start the application and then realize your information is incomplete.
Here are the common details you need:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| LLC legal name | Exact name approved by the state |
| LLC formation state | State where your LLC was formed |
| LLC formation date | Date your LLC was officially approved |
| Business mailing address | Can be U.S. or foreign, depending on your setup |
| Responsible party name | Main owner or controlling person |
| Responsible party address | Residential address of the responsible party |
| Entity type | Usually LLC |
| Number of LLC members | Single-member or multi-member |
| Reason for applying | Started a new business, banking purpose, compliance, or other valid reason |
| Principal business activity | What your business does |
| Signature | Required for fax or mail applications |
You should also have your approved LLC formation document ready. This may be called:
• Articles of Organization
• Certificate of Formation
• Certificate of Organization
The name depends on the state where you formed the LLC.
How to Get an EIN for Non-US Residents? Step-by-Step EIN Application Process
The process for non-US residents is slightly different from the process for U.S. residents.
If you do not have an SSN or ITIN and do not qualify for the online application, you will usually apply by phone, fax, or mail using Form SS-4.
Below is the step-by-step process.
Step 1: Form Your U.S. LLC First
Before applying for an EIN, you should usually form your LLC first.
The IRS application asks for your legal business name, formation state, and other entity details. If your LLC has not been approved yet, you may not have the correct legal information.
To form a U.S. LLC, you generally need to:
• Choose a state
• Pick a business name
• Appoint a registered agent
• File Articles of Organization
• Pay the state filing fee
• Wait for approval
Once the LLC is approved, you can use the official company details on Form SS-4.
Make sure the LLC name on your EIN application matches the name approved by the state.
Step 2: Download IRS Form SS-4
Non-US residents usually apply for an EIN using Form SS-4, which is the IRS application for an Employer Identification Number.
Form SS-4 asks for business details, responsible party information, entity type, reason for applying, and business activity.
You should complete this form carefully because mistakes can delay your EIN.
The form includes important fields such as:
• Legal name of entity
• Trade name, if any
• Mailing address
• Responsible party name
• Entity type
• LLC details
• Reason for applying
• Business start date
• Principal business activity
• Signature
Use the latest version of Form SS-4 because IRS forms can be updated.
Step 3: Fill Out Your LLC Name Correctly
On Form SS-4, enter your LLC’s exact legal name.
This should match your state-approved LLC formation document.
For example, if your state approved your company as:
BrightPath Digital LLC
Do not write:
Bright Path Digital
BrightPath Digital Limited
BrightPath Digital Company
Small differences can create confusion.
If you have a trade name or DBA, you can enter it separately where the form asks for a trade name.
Your legal LLC name should always match the official formation record.
Step 4: Enter Your Mailing Address
Form SS-4 asks for a mailing address.
This is where the IRS can send EIN-related correspondence.
Non-US residents may use a foreign mailing address. Some business owners may also use a U.S. mailing address if they have one.
Make sure the address is correct and reliable.
If your address is outside the United States, write it clearly with country name, postal code, province or state, and city.
Avoid using an address you cannot access.
Step 5: Enter the Responsible Party Information
Line 7a asks for the name of the responsible party.
This is usually the main owner or controlling person of the LLC.
For a single-member LLC, enter the owner’s full legal name.
For a multi-member LLC, enter the name of the person who has primary control or management authority.
Line 7b asks for the responsible party’s SSN, ITIN, or EIN.
If the responsible party is a non-US resident and does not have an SSN or ITIN, many applicants write:
Foreign
This helps show that the responsible party does not have a U.S. taxpayer identification number.
Do not invent a number. Do not use someone else’s SSN or ITIN. Do not leave the application unclear.
Step 6: Mark That the Entity Is an LLC
Form SS-4 asks whether the application is for a Limited Liability Company.
If your business is a U.S. LLC, select Yes for the LLC question.
You may also need to enter the number of LLC members.
For example:
| LLC Type | Number of Members |
|---|---|
| Single-member LLC | 1 |
| Two-owner LLC | 2 |
| Three-owner LLC | 3 |
The form may also ask whether the LLC was organized in the United States.
If you formed your LLC in a U.S. state, the answer is usually Yes.
Step 7: Choose the Correct Entity Classification
This is where many non-US residents get confused.
An LLC is a legal entity created under state law, but the IRS needs to know how it should be classified for federal tax purposes.
A single-member LLC is often treated as a disregarded entity by default.
A multi-member LLC is often treated as a partnership by default.
However, the way you complete Form SS-4 depends on your specific situation.
Here is a simple guide:
| LLC Type | Common Default Tax Treatment |
|---|---|
| Single-member LLC | Disregarded entity |
| Multi-member LLC | Partnership |
| LLC electing corporate tax | Corporation |
| LLC electing S Corporation tax | Only if eligible |
Most non-US founders with a simple single-member LLC do not elect corporate taxation at the EIN stage unless they have a specific tax strategy.
If you are unsure, speak with a tax professional before choosing a tax classification.
Step 8: Select the Reason for Applying
Form SS-4 asks why you are applying for an EIN.
Common reasons include:
• Started a new business
• Banking purpose
• Hired employees
• Changed type of organization
• Purchased going business
• Created a trust or other entity
For most non-US residents forming a new LLC, the reason is usually:
Started a new business
If you are applying mainly to open a business bank account, you may still be applying because you started a new business.
Choose the option that best matches your situation.
Step 9: Enter Your Business Activity
Form SS-4 asks what your business does.
You should describe your main business activity clearly.
Examples:
| Business Type | Example Activity Description |
|---|---|
| Ecommerce | Online retail sales |
| Software | Software development services |
| Consulting | Business consulting services |
| Marketing agency | Digital marketing services |
| Real estate | Real estate investment |
| Content business | Online publishing and affiliate marketing |
| Freelancing | Professional design or writing services |
Avoid vague descriptions like “online business” if you can be more specific.
A clear business activity helps the IRS understand the purpose of the entity.
Step 10: Sign and Date Form SS-4
If you apply by fax or mail, the form must be signed and dated.
The responsible party or authorized person should sign the form.
Before submitting, review:
• LLC name
• Mailing address
• Responsible party name
• “Foreign” entry if no SSN or ITIN
• LLC member count
• Entity type
• Reason for applying
• Business activity
• Signature and date
Unsigned or incomplete forms can delay processing.
How to Submit Your EIN Application?
Non-US residents usually have three main application options: phone, fax, or mail.
The right option depends on your location, urgency, and comfort level.
Option 1: Apply by Phone
International applicants may apply for an EIN by phone if their principal place of business is outside the United States. The IRS lists the international EIN phone number as 267-941-1099, available Monday through Friday during IRS hours. This number is not toll-free.
Phone application is often the fastest option because the EIN may be issued during the call if the application is accepted.
Before calling, keep Form SS-4 completed in front of you.
The IRS representative may ask questions from the form, including:
• Legal name of the LLC
• Formation state
• Formation date
• Responsible party name
• Business mailing address
• Number of LLC members
• Reason for applying
• Business activity
Be prepared for wait times, call drops, or language barriers.
If approved, the IRS representative may provide the EIN during the call.
Option 2: Apply by Fax
Non-US residents can also fax Form SS-4 to the IRS.
The IRS lists fax numbers for EIN applications, including a fax option for applicants outside the United States. (IRS)
Fax application is useful if you do not want to call or if the phone line is difficult to reach.
When applying by fax:
• Complete Form SS-4
• Sign and date the form
• Include a return fax number if available
• Fax it to the correct IRS EIN fax number
• Keep the fax confirmation receipt
Fax processing can take longer than phone approval, but it is usually faster than mail.
Option 3: Apply by Mail
You can also mail Form SS-4 to the IRS.
Mail is usually the slowest option. It may take several weeks or longer depending on postal delays and IRS processing times.
Mail may be suitable if fax and phone are not possible, but it is not ideal if you need the EIN quickly.
When mailing the form:
• Use the correct IRS mailing address for international EIN applications
• Sign and date the form
• Keep a copy for your records
• Use reliable international mail or courier if possible
If you are trying to open a bank account or payment processor soon, phone or fax is usually better than mail.
Can Non-US Residents Apply for an EIN Online?
In many cases, no.
The IRS online EIN application is generally not available to applicants who have no legal residence, principal place of business, principal office, or agency in the United States or U.S. territories. Those applicants must use another method to apply.
This means many non-US residents without a U.S. presence cannot use the online EIN assistant.
If you try to apply online without meeting the requirements, the application may fail or you may not be able to complete it properly.
Non-US residents usually apply by:
• Phone
• Fax
• Mail
If you have a valid U.S. presence and a responsible party with the required identification, your situation may be different. But most foreign founders without SSN or ITIN should expect to use Form SS-4.
How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN as a Non-US Resident?
The timeline depends on the application method.
| Application Method | Estimated Timeline |
|---|---|
| Phone | Often same call if approved |
| Fax | Commonly several business days to a few weeks |
| Often several weeks or more | |
| Online | Usually immediate, but many non-US residents cannot use it |
Processing times can vary depending on IRS workload, form accuracy, holidays, and whether the application has missing details.
Phone is usually the fastest option for international applicants.
Fax is a good backup if phone access is difficult.
Mail should usually be used only when other options are not practical.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an EIN?
Getting an EIN directly from the IRS is free.
You do not need to pay the IRS for an EIN. The IRS warns that applicants never have to pay a fee for an EIN when applying directly through the IRS.
However, some companies charge service fees to prepare and submit EIN applications.
Typical costs may include:
| Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apply directly with IRS | Free |
| Use LLC formation service | May be included or charged separately |
| Use tax professional | Varies |
| Use EIN filing service | Varies |
| International fax or phone cost | Depends on your provider |
If your application is simple, you may be able to apply yourself.
If you are unsure how to complete Form SS-4, using a tax professional may save time and prevent errors.
EIN for a Single-Member LLC Owned by a Non-US Resident
A single-member LLC has one owner.
If a non-US resident owns a U.S. single-member LLC, the LLC may still need an EIN for banking, tax reporting, and business verification.
A foreign-owned single-member LLC may also have specific IRS reporting requirements. The EIN helps identify the LLC when filing required forms.
When completing Form SS-4, a single-member LLC owner usually enters:
• LLC legal name
• Owner as responsible party
• One LLC member
• U.S. formation state
• Business activity
• Reason for applying
If the owner has no SSN or ITIN, they may write Foreign on the responsible party tax ID line.
EIN for a Multi-Member LLC Owned by Non-US Residents
A multi-member LLC has two or more owners.
If the LLC is owned by non-US residents, it will usually need an EIN.
Multi-member LLCs are often treated as partnerships by default for federal tax purposes unless they elect another classification.
The EIN may be used for:
• Partnership tax filings
• Bank account opening
• Payment processor verification
• Contractor documentation
• Business records
For a multi-member LLC, choose one responsible party who controls or manages the company.
This is often the managing member or the person with the most control over the LLC.
EIN vs ITIN: What Is the Difference?
Many non-US residents confuse EIN and ITIN.
They are not the same.
| Item | EIN | ITIN |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Employer Identification Number | Individual Taxpayer Identification Number |
| Issued By | IRS | IRS |
| Used For | Business tax identification | Individual tax identification |
| Who Uses It | LLCs, companies, employers, entities | Individuals who need a U.S. tax ID |
| Format | 12-3456789 | 9-digit individual tax number |
| Needed for LLC? | Usually yes for business use | Not always |
| Can replace SSN? | For business ID only | For individual tax purposes |
An EIN identifies your business.
An ITIN identifies you as an individual taxpayer.
A non-US resident may need both in some situations, but you do not always need an ITIN to get an EIN.
EIN vs SSN: What Is the Difference?
An SSN is a Social Security Number issued to eligible individuals in the United States.
An EIN is issued to businesses and entities.
| Item | EIN | SSN |
|---|---|---|
| Used For | Business tax identification | Individual identification |
| Issued To | Businesses and entities | Eligible individuals |
| Needed by non-US resident LLC owner? | Often yes | Usually not available unless eligible |
| Used for payroll? | Yes, for employer reporting | Used by employees and individuals |
| Used for business banking? | Often required | Not usually enough for LLC banking |
If you are a non-US resident without an SSN, you can still apply for an EIN through the proper IRS process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an EIN
Many EIN delays happen because of small mistakes on Form SS-4.
Here are the most common errors non-US residents should avoid.
1. Trying to Use the Online EIN System When Not Eligible
Many non-US residents try to apply online because it seems faster.
But if you do not have a U.S. legal residence, principal office, or agency, the online system may not be available to you.
Use phone, fax, or mail instead.
2. Entering the Wrong LLC Name
Your LLC name must match your state approval document.
Even small spelling differences can cause confusion.
Use the exact legal name from your Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation.
3. Leaving Line 7b Blank
If the responsible party has no SSN, ITIN, or EIN, many non-US applicants write Foreign on Line 7b.
Leaving it blank may delay the application.
4. Choosing the Wrong Entity Type
LLCs can be confusing because they are legal entities under state law but taxed differently by default.
Make sure you understand whether your LLC is single-member, multi-member, or electing corporate taxation.
5. Forgetting to Sign the Form
If you apply by fax or mail, the form must be signed.
Unsigned forms may not be processed.
6. Using an Unreliable Mailing Address
Use an address where you can actually receive IRS correspondence.
If the IRS sends a letter and you cannot access it, you may face delays later.
7. Applying Before the LLC Is Approved
Apply after your LLC is officially approved.
This helps ensure your legal name and formation details are correct.
Should You Use a Professional Service to Get an EIN?
You can apply for an EIN yourself, but some non-US residents prefer using a professional service.
A professional service may help with:
• Completing Form SS-4
• Reviewing your entity details
• Avoiding common mistakes
• Submitting the application
• Handling IRS communication
• Explaining tax basics
This can be useful if you are not comfortable filling IRS forms or if your ownership structure is complex.
However, remember that the EIN itself is free from the IRS. You are paying the service provider for assistance, not for the EIN number itself.
| Option | Best For |
|---|---|
| DIY phone application | Confident applicants who want the fastest route |
| DIY fax application | Applicants who want a written submission |
| Mail application | Applicants with no phone or fax access |
| Professional service | Beginners or complex ownership cases |
| Tax professional | Non-US founders with tax questions |
If your LLC has multiple owners, foreign corporate members, U.S. income, or complicated tax issues, a tax professional is usually a better choice than a basic filing service.
EIN Application Checklist for Non-US Residents
Use this checklist before applying for your EIN.
| Step | Task |
|---|---|
| 1 | Form your U.S. LLC |
| 2 | Get your LLC approval document |
| 3 | Download the latest Form SS-4 |
| 4 | Enter the exact LLC legal name |
| 5 | Add your mailing address |
| 6 | Enter responsible party details |
| 7 | Write “Foreign” if no SSN or ITIN applies |
| 8 | Mark the LLC section correctly |
| 9 | Enter the number of LLC members |
| 10 | Select the correct reason for applying |
| 11 | Describe your business activity clearly |
| 12 | Sign and date the form |
| 13 | Apply by phone, fax, or mail |
| 14 | Save your EIN confirmation |
| 15 | Use EIN for banking and tax setup |
Final Thoughts
Getting an EIN is one of the most important steps for non-US residents who own a U.S. LLC.
Without an EIN, it can be difficult to open a business bank account, work with payment processors, file tax forms, or verify your company with business platforms.
The process is very doable, even if you do not have an SSN or ITIN. The key is to understand that many non-US residents cannot use the online EIN application. Instead, they usually apply through Form SS-4 by phone, fax, or mail.
Before applying, make sure your LLC is already approved, your business name is correct, your responsible party details are accurate, and your form is complete.
If your application is simple, you may be able to handle it yourself. If your ownership structure is complex or you are unsure about tax treatment, it is better to speak with a qualified tax professional.
For non-US founders, an EIN is more than just a tax number. It is the number that helps your U.S. LLC become usable for banking, payments, tax records, and business verification.
Once you have it, your company is in a much stronger position to operate professionally in the United States.