Can I get an EIN without an SSN?

Yes. The IRS allows non-US residents without an SSN to apply for an EIN by submitting Form SS-4 via fax or mail. Online applications require an SSN or ITIN.

How long does it take to get an EIN without an SSN?

Fax applications typically receive an EIN within 4-6 weeks. Mail applications can take 8-12 weeks. Formation services may have faster turnaround times.

Do I need an ITIN to get an EIN?

No. You do not need an ITIN to get an EIN. However, you may need an ITIN later for tax filing purposes if you're a non-resident with US tax obligations.

Can I apply for an EIN online without an SSN?

No. The IRS online EIN application requires either an SSN or ITIN. Without one, you must use the fax or mail method with Form SS-4.

What is a responsible party for an EIN application?

The responsible party is the individual who controls, manages, or directs the entity. For single-member LLCs, this is typically the owner. The responsible party must be an individual—not another entity.

How to Get an EIN Without an SSN (Non-US Founders)

Last verified: June 12, 2026 · Sources

What is an EIN?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a 9-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. It's sometimes called a Federal Tax ID Number. You need an EIN to:

Open a US business bank account
File US tax returns for your LLC
Hire employees or contractors
Apply for business credit

Can Non-US Residents Get an EIN Without an SSN?

Yes. The IRS explicitly allows non-US residents without a Social Security Number to apply for an EIN. However, you cannot use the online application—you must submit Form SS-4 via fax or mail.

According to the IRS instructions for Form SS-4: "International applicants may call 267-941-1099 (not a toll-free number) 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday, to obtain their EIN."

Three Ways to Get an EIN Without an SSN

Option 1: Fax Form SS-4 to the IRS (DIY)

Timeline: ~4 business days (via Fax-TIN program)
Cost: Free (plus fax costs)

Steps:

Download Form SS-4 from the IRS website
Complete the form. For Line 7b (SSN or ITIN), write "Foreign" or "None—applying for EIN to open bank account"
If your LLC is a foreign-owned single-member LLC (a disregarded entity), mark Line 9a "Other" and write "Foreign-owned U.S. disregarded entity-Form 5472" — this is the exact wording the IRS uses for this situation.
Fax to the IRS international line: 855-215-1627 (from within US) or 304-707-9471 (from outside US). These are the numbers for applicants with no legal residence or principal business in a US state.
The IRS will fax your EIN back to the number you provide on the form, typically within 4 business days

Source: IRS Instructions for Form SS-4 (verified June 12, 2026)

Option 2: Call the IRS (Fastest DIY Option)

Timeline: Same day (if you get through)
Cost: International call charges

International applicants can call the IRS directly at +1-267-941-1099 during business hours (6 AM to 11 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday). You can receive your EIN over the phone.

Be prepared to provide:

Your legal name and address
Your LLC's name and formation state
Type of business activity
Reason for applying (e.g., banking, tax filing)

Note: Wait times can be significant (1-2 hours or more). The IRS phone line is often busy, especially early in the year.

Option 3: Use a Formation Service

Timeline: Varies by provider (typically 1-4 weeks)
Cost: $50-150+ (varies by provider)

Most LLC formation services include EIN application as part of their package or as an add-on. They handle the paperwork and follow up with the IRS on your behalf. This is the most hands-off option but adds cost.

Popular services that handle EIN for non-residents include:

doola – EIN included in formation packages
Firstbase – EIN included in formation packages
Northwest Registered Agent – EIN filing available as add-on ($50)

Ready to form your US LLC?

These services include or add on EIN filing and handle the IRS paperwork for non-US founders.

Visit doola Visit Firstbase Visit Northwest

We may earn a commission if you sign up through these links, at no extra cost to you.

We will publish a detailed comparison of EIN handling across formation services soon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't use the online application – It requires an SSN or ITIN. Your application will be rejected.
Don't leave Line 7b blank – Write "Foreign" or explain you're applying without an SSN.
Don't use a third party as the responsible party – The IRS requires the actual owner or a person with control over the entity. Using an agent or nominee can cause problems.
Include a valid fax number – If you don't have one, many online services provide virtual fax numbers (e.g., eFax, HelloFax).

What Happens After You Get Your EIN?

Once you have your EIN, you can:

Open a US business bank account – Mercury, Wise Business, and Payoneer accept non-resident LLC owners with an EIN. Relay also works but requires a physical US business address (no virtual mailboxes), and in 2026 it has increasingly asked for an SSN/ITIN — verify its current requirements before relying on the "no SSN" path.
Set up payment processing – Apply for Stripe, PayPal Business, etc.
File required tax forms – Single-member LLCs owned by non-residents must file Form 5472 annually

Sources

IRS.gov – How to Apply for an EIN (Official)
IRS Form SS-4 Instructions (Official)
IRS.gov – Employer ID Numbers (Official)

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.