Yes, you can get an EIN without an SSN. The IRS does not require a Social Security number to issue an Employer Identification Number to a business. The catch is the online application: the IRS says it cannot be used when the principal place of business is outside the U.S., and it asks for an SSN or ITIN for the responsible party. Applicants in that position use Form SS-4 by fax, mail or phone instead.
What an EIN is and who needs one
An EIN is a nine-digit federal tax number the IRS assigns to businesses. A U.S. LLC or corporation generally needs one to open a business bank account, file federal tax returns, hire employees and work with payment processors. A foreign-owned LLC needs an EIN even if the owner never visits the United States.
Why the online application does not work for most non-residents
The IRS online EIN tool is limited to applicants whose principal place of business is in the U.S. or its territories, and it requires the responsible party to enter an SSN or ITIN. The responsible party is the individual who owns or controls the entity and its funds. For an LLC owned and run from abroad, the application goes through Form SS-4.
How to apply for an EIN without an SSN
1. Complete Form SS-4
Form SS-4 is the IRS Application for Employer Identification Number. Enter the legal name of the LLC exactly as it appears on the state formation document, the U.S. mailing address (or foreign address if none), the responsible party's name, the entity type and the reason for applying.
2. Line 7b: leave out the SSN
Line 7b asks for the responsible party's SSN, ITIN or EIN. If the person has none, the IRS form instructions say to enter "foreign" or N/A when the responsible party has no SSN or ITIN and cannot get one. Do not invent a number.
3. Choose how to submit
- Fax: usually the fastest route. The SS-4 instructions say faxed applications are generally answered within four business days.
- Mail: slower. The instructions give about four weeks, so it is not ideal if you need a bank account quickly.
- Phone: international applicants can call the IRS at 267-941-1099 (not toll-free, Monday to Friday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern). The caller must be authorized to receive the EIN and have a completed Form SS-4 ready.
Fax numbers, addresses and hours change from time to time, so confirm them in the current SS-4 instructions on irs.gov.
Common mistakes that delay an EIN
- The company name does not match the state formation document.
- Choosing the wrong entity type or number of members for an LLC.
- Entering a made-up SSN or ITIN on line 7b.
- An unclear or incomplete address, or a missing signature.
- Applying before the LLC has been formed and approved by the state.
Do you need an ITIN as well?
Not to get the EIN. An ITIN is a separate tax number for individuals and you only need one in certain situations, such as filing a personal U.S. tax return. If that applies, read our guide to getting an ITIN.
After you receive the EIN
The IRS sends a confirmation letter (CP 575). Keep it safe, since banks usually ask for it. If you lose it, the IRS can issue a replacement letter (147C). If the company's address or responsible party changes later, update the IRS with Form 8822-B.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner get an EIN without a U.S. address?
Yes. An LLC formed in the U.S. normally has a U.S. registered agent address, and the SS-4 can use a foreign address for the owner. The IRS does not require the owner to live in the United States.
How long does it take to get an EIN without an SSN?
Fax and phone applications are usually the quickest, taking days rather than weeks. Mail takes about four weeks. Timing depends on the IRS workload and on whether the form is complete and correct.
Does an EIN cost money?
The IRS does not charge a fee for an EIN. If a service prepares and submits the application for you, you pay that provider's fee.
Can I use an EIN instead of an SSN on my personal tax return?
No. An EIN identifies a business. Personal returns use an SSN or ITIN.
Can an LLC owned by a non-resident open a bank account with an EIN?
The EIN is one of the documents banks ask for, together with the formation documents and the owner's ID. Each bank sets its own rules for foreign-owned companies.
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