Get a US EIN as a Non-Resident: No SSN Required
An Employer Identification Number is required for US business banking, payroll, and tax filings. We guide non-resident LLC and C-Corp owners through the full IRS application.
Who this is for
- Non-resident LLC owners who need an EIN for banking
- Foreign nationals opening a US business bank account
- E-commerce sellers who need a US tax ID
- Employers who need to process US payroll or issue 1099s
What's included
- IRS Form SS-4 preparation
- Application method selection (online, fax, or mail)
- EIN confirmation letter guidance
- Step-by-step instructions for your specific entity type
How it works
Form SS-4 prepared
We complete the IRS application form for your entity.
Submission method chosen
Online (same-day for US-based applicants), fax (4 business days), or mail (4–5 weeks).
EIN issued
EIN assigned by the IRS and confirmation letter received.
Tax treatment for non-residents
An EIN is a federal tax identification number for your US entity - it does not itself create a US tax liability. Non-resident-owned single-member LLCs are typically treated as disregarded entities by the IRS and pay no US federal income tax on foreign-sourced income. However, a foreign-owned LLC must still file IRS Form 5472 (an informational return) each year to avoid penalties. The EIN is required to open a US business bank account, process payroll, and file any US returns. We do not provide tax advice; please consult a US international tax professional to confirm your filing obligations.
Why non-residents choose this service
- Obtain a US EIN without a Social Security Number or ITIN - the IRS SS-4 route is open to all foreign applicants
- EIN required to open a US business bank account at Mercury, Relay, Brex, and most US banks
- Enables Stripe US, PayPal Business, and other US payment processors that require a US tax ID
- Fax submission route typically delivers EIN confirmation within 4 business days
- Permanent - your EIN belongs to your entity for its lifetime and never needs to be renewed
Common questions from non-residents
Can I get a US EIN without a Social Security Number?
Yes. Non-residents apply via IRS Form SS-4 using the fax or mail method. The online application requires an SSN, but the fax route is fully available to foreign nationals. We prepare the SS-4 and guide you through the process.
Why do I need an EIN if I'm a one-person LLC?
Even single-member LLCs need an EIN to open a US business bank account, to activate Stripe or PayPal Business in the US, and to file IRS Form 5472 (required for foreign-owned single-member LLCs). Without an EIN, US banking and payment processing access is blocked.
How long does the non-resident EIN application take?
Fax applications typically receive an EIN within 4 business days. Mail applications take 4–5 weeks. We recommend fax for most non-residents who need their EIN promptly. The IRS does not charge a fee for issuing an EIN.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-resident apply for a US EIN?
Yes. Non-residents without an SSN apply via Form SS-4, typically by fax or mail, as the IRS online system requires an SSN.
How long does it take?
Fax: 4 business days. Mail: 4–5 weeks. We recommend fax for most non-residents.
Do I need an EIN if I'm the only member of my LLC?
Yes, most US banks require an EIN even for single-member LLCs, and it's required for filing federal taxes.
Does an EIN expire?
No. An EIN is permanent and belongs to your entity for its lifetime.
Review before you continue
Check the listed scope, requirements, price note, and FAQs. Final decisions remain with the relevant bank, government authority, or institution.
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