How to Get an EIN as a Foreigner Without an SSN in 2026: A Complete Guide for International Founders

How to get an EIN as a foreigner without an SSN in 2026 is one of the most common questions international founders ask the IRS. In fact, the IRS issues over 5 million EINs every year, with a growing share going to non-US residents. Furthermore, you do not need a Social Security Number, ITIN, US visa, or US address to get one. As a result, almost any foreign founder with a US LLC or corporation can obtain an EIN.

However, the process is not as simple as it looks online. For example, the IRS’s online EIN tool blocks foreign applicants automatically. In addition, most YouTube tutorials skip the steps that actually work for non-residents. Therefore, knowing the correct path saves weeks of delays and rejected applications.

This guide breaks down every method to obtain an EIN without an SSN. For instance, it covers Form SS-4 completion, the IRS international phone line, fax and mail filing, and third-party service options. Next, it explains common mistakes, processing times, and what to do after you receive your EIN. Finally, it lists scam warnings and verification steps. Whether you live in Lagos, Manila, Mumbai, or Mexico City, this is your complete 2026 EIN roadmap.

What Is an EIN and Why Foreign Founders Need One

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a nine-digit federal tax ID. The IRS issues it to identify your US business for tax purposes. Furthermore, it works like a Social Security Number for businesses. As a result, every US business with a separate legal entity needs an EIN.

For foreign founders, the EIN unlocks key business activities. For example, it is required to:

• Open a US business bank account
• File US tax returns (Form 1120, 1065, 5472)
• Hire US employees or contractors
• Apply for business licenses and permits
• Set up Stripe, PayPal, Square, and other payment processors
• Register with state tax authorities
• Establish business credit profiles
• Enter contracts with US clients and vendors

In addition, many global platforms now require an EIN for non-US sellers. For instance, Amazon FBA, Etsy, Shopify, and Upwork all prefer US-registered businesses with valid EINs. Therefore, getting your EIN is the gateway to operating a real US business.

Furthermore, the EIN supports future visa pathways. For example, E-2, L-1, O-1, and EB-5 visa applications require an established US business with proper tax registration. As a result, your EIN becomes a foundation document for future immigration plans.

Who Can Get an EIN Without an SSN

The IRS allows non-US residents to obtain EINs through specific channels. Therefore, here is who qualifies.

Eligible Applicants

You can get an EIN without an SSN if you are:

• A non-US resident forming or owning a US LLC
• Any non-US resident forming or owning a US C-corporation
• Someone operating as a sole proprietor with US business activity (non-US resident)
• The heir of a non-US resident inheriting US business interests
• A non-US trustee of a US trust with business activities

In addition, you do not need:

• US citizenship or residency
• An SSN or ITIN
• A US visa or green card
• A US address (for most cases)
• US employees

Restrictions and Limitations

Some restrictions apply. For example:

• You must have a US-registered business entity (or be forming one)
• The business must have a legitimate purpose
• You cannot apply for the same EIN twice
• You cannot apply on behalf of another person without authorization (Form 2848)

Furthermore, OFAC-sanctioned countries face restrictions. For instance, residents of Iran, North Korea, Syria, and certain other regions may not qualify. As a result, check your country’s status before applying.

Single-Member vs Multi-Member LLC EIN Rules

Single-member LLCs and multi-member LLCs both need EINs. However, the IRS treats them differently.

Single-Member LLC: The IRS treats it as a “disregarded entity” by default. Furthermore, the owner is the “Responsible Party” on Form SS-4. As a result, the EIN belongs to the LLC but the tax obligations pass through to the owner.

Multi-Member LLC: The IRS treats it as a partnership by default. Furthermore, one of the members serves as the Responsible Party. In addition, multi-member LLCs file Form 1065 and issue Schedule K-1s.

In both cases, you can apply for the EIN without any owner having an SSN.

Methods to Get an EIN Without an SSN

The IRS offers four methods to obtain an EIN. However, only some work for foreign founders without SSN.

Method 1: Phone (Fastest)

Calling the IRS international line is the fastest method for foreign founders. Furthermore, you receive your EIN on the call. As a result, this is the recommended path.

Phone Number: +1 (267) 941-1099 Hours: Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time Wait Time: 30 to 90 minutes on hold (often) Processing: EIN issued during the call Cost: Free (only your international call charges)

To use this method, complete Form SS-4 first (covered below). Next, call the IRS and follow the prompts. Then, an agent reviews your information and issues your EIN. Finally, the IRS mails your CP-575 confirmation letter within 4 to 6 weeks.

Method 2: Fax

Faxing Form SS-4 works for foreign founders. Furthermore, processing is faster than mail. As a result, this is the recommended written method.

Fax Number: (855) 641-6935 (for foreign applicants) Processing: 4 to 7 business days for fax response Cost: Free (only your fax service costs)

To use this method, complete Form SS-4 with foreign address. Next, fax it to the IRS. Then, the IRS faxes back your EIN if you provided a return fax number. Finally, the IRS mails your CP-575 within 4 to 6 weeks.

Method 3: Mail

Mailing Form SS-4 is the slowest method. However, it works when phone and fax fail. As a result, use this only as a backup.

Mailing Address: Internal Revenue Service Attn: EIN International Operation Cincinnati, OH 45999 USA

Processing: 4 to 6 weeks for response Cost: International postage only

To use this method, complete Form SS-4 carefully. Next, mail it via tracked international courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS). Then, wait for the IRS to mail back your CP-575 letter.

Method 4: Online (Blocked for Foreigners)

The IRS online EIN application at IRS.gov is the fastest method for US residents. However, it requires a valid SSN or ITIN as the Responsible Party. As a result, foreign founders without SSN cannot use this method directly.

Some founders try workarounds, like using a US partner’s SSN. However, this creates compliance issues and is not recommended. Therefore, stick to phone, fax, or mail for foreign applications.

Form SS-4: The Application Document

Form SS-4 is the EIN application. Therefore, completing it correctly is critical for approval.

Where to Get Form SS-4

Download the latest version at irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-ss-4. Furthermore, ensure you use the current year’s form. As a result, you avoid rejections for outdated documents.

How to Complete Form SS-4 as a Foreign Founder

Here is line-by-line guidance for foreign founders.

Line 1: Legal name of entity Enter your LLC or corporation name exactly as registered with the state. For example, “Acme Tech LLC” or “Global Ventures Inc.”

Line 2: Trade name (DBA) Enter your DBA if different from legal name. Otherwise, leave blank.

Line 3: Executor, administrator, trustee, “care of” name Usually leave blank for new LLCs. However, fill in if applying as a trustee or estate.

Line 4a-4b: Mailing address Enter your foreign residential or business address. Furthermore, use the exact format your country requires. For example: 123 Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island, Lagos 101241, Nigeria.

Line 5a-5b: Street address (if different from mailing) Enter your US registered agent’s address. For instance: “Northwest Registered Agent, 100 W Big Beaver Rd, Troy, MI 48084” or similar.

Line 6: County and state where principal business is located Enter the state where your LLC is registered. For example: “Sheridan, Wyoming” or “Wilmington, Delaware.”

Line 7a: Name of responsible party Enter your full legal name as the responsible party. Furthermore, use the exact name on your passport.

Line 7b: SSN, ITIN, or EIN Write “Foreign” in this field. Do not leave blank, and do not enter any random number. As a result, the IRS understands you have no US tax ID.

Line 8a: Is this application for an LLC? Check “Yes” if forming an LLC. Otherwise, check “No.”

Line 8b: Number of LLC members Enter the number of LLC members. For instance, “1” for single-member LLC.

Line 8c: Was the LLC organized in the United States? Check “Yes” if your LLC is a US-registered entity (Wyoming, Delaware, etc.).

Line 9a: Type of entity Check the appropriate box. For most foreign founders, check “Other” and write “Foreign-owned U.S. Disregarded Entity” for single-member LLCs. By contrast, check “Partnership” for multi-member LLCs or “Corporation” for C-corps.

Line 9b: If corporation, name the state or foreign country For C-corps, enter the state where incorporated. Otherwise, leave blank.

Line 10: Reason for applying Check the most accurate option. For example, “Started new business” or “Banking purposes.”

Line 11: Date business started or acquired Enter your LLC formation date as shown on Articles of Organization.

Line 12: Closing month of accounting year Enter “12” for December (calendar year) for most LLCs.

Line 13: Highest number of employees expected Enter your expected employees over the next 12 months. For instance, “0” if you have no employees planned.

Line 14: Do you expect employment tax liability under $1,000? Check “Yes” if you expect to pay less than $1,000 in payroll taxes annually.

Line 15: First date wages or annuities were paid Enter “N/A” if you have no employees. Otherwise, enter the date of first payroll.

Line 16: Principal activity of your business Enter your main business activity. For example, “E-commerce – online retail,” “Software development,” or “Marketing consulting.”

Line 17: Principal line of merchandise sold or specific services provided Provide more detail. For instance, “Custom WordPress development for SaaS companies” or “Dropshipping consumer electronics.”

Line 18: Has the applicant entity received an EIN before? Check “No” for new applications.

Signature Section Sign and date the form. Furthermore, include your printed name and a contact phone number. As a result, the IRS can reach you if needed.

Common Form SS-4 Mistakes Foreign Founders Make

Knowing common errors helps you avoid them. Therefore, here are the top mistakes in 2026.

Mistake 1: Leaving Line 7b blank instead of writing “Foreign”

Error 2: Entering random numbers in Line 7b to try to bypass the SSN requirement

Issue 3: Using incorrect formation date (use the state filing date, not Operating Agreement date)

Mistake 4: Selecting wrong entity type on Line 9a

Error 5: Vague business description on Lines 16-17

Issue 6: Missing signature or printed name

Mistake 7: Wrong fax number (855-641-6935 is the foreign fax; do not use other fax numbers)

Error 8: Mailing to wrong IRS address (use Cincinnati, OH 45999 for foreign applicants)

Issue 9: Calling during US holidays when the international line is closed

Step-by-Step Process to Get Your EIN by Phone

Phone is the fastest method. Therefore, here is the complete walkthrough.

Step 1: Complete Form SS-4 First (Day 1)

Before calling, fill out Form SS-4 completely. Furthermore, keep a copy in front of you during the call. As a result, you can answer the IRS agent’s questions quickly.

Step 2: Prepare Required Information (Day 1)

Have these ready before calling:

• Form SS-4 (completed)
• Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation (state-stamped)
• Your passport
• Foreign address (residential or business)
• US registered agent address
• Phone number (use a US-compatible international phone)

Step 3: Call the IRS International Line (Day 1)

Call +1 (267) 941-1099. Furthermore, US business hours are 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. As a result, plan your call timing based on your home country.

For example, if you live in:

• Nigeria (GMT+1): Call between 12:00 PM and 5:00 AM local time
• India (GMT+5:30): Call between 4:30 PM and 9:30 AM local time
• Philippines (GMT+8): Call between 7:00 PM and 12:00 PM local time
• UK (GMT): Call between 11:00 AM and 4:00 AM local time
• Mexico City (GMT-6): Call between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM local time

Step 4: Navigate the Phone Menu (Call Duration: 30 to 120 min)

The IRS phone menu has several layers. Furthermore, expect wait times of 30 to 90 minutes. As a result, plan a full 2-hour window for the call.

Follow these prompts:

1. Press for English (or your preferred language)
2. Select the option for “Employer Identification Number”
3. Choose the option for “International applicant”
4. Hold for an agent

Step 5: Speak with the IRS Agent (15 to 30 min)

When the agent answers, follow this script:

1. State your name and that you are calling to apply for an EIN as a foreign owner of a US LLC
2. The agent will ask for your Form SS-4 information
3. Read each line of Form SS-4 in order
4. The agent will verify and ask follow-up questions
5. At the end, the agent will provide your EIN verbally

Take careful notes of your EIN. Furthermore, write it down twice to avoid mistakes. As a result, you will have your EIN immediately.

Step 6: Wait for CP-575 Confirmation Letter (4 to 6 weeks)

The IRS mails your official CP-575 letter to your foreign address. Furthermore, banks and platforms require this exact letter. As a result, store it safely once received.

If your CP-575 does not arrive in 6 weeks, call the IRS again. Then, request a 147C verification letter, which most banks accept as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Your EIN by Fax

Fax is the second-fastest method. Therefore, here is how it works.

Step 1: Complete Form SS-4 (Day 1)

Fill out Form SS-4 carefully. Furthermore, double-check every line.

Step 2: Sign and Date the Form (Day 1)

Sign the form in blue or black ink. Furthermore, print your name below your signature. As a result, the IRS knows the signature matches your name.

Step 3: Include a Return Fax Number (Day 1)

Add your return fax number at the top of the form. Furthermore, this lets the IRS fax back your EIN. As a result, you receive the EIN in 4 to 7 days instead of weeks.

Step 4: Fax to (855) 641-6935 (Day 1)

Use a foreign-friendly fax service. For example, eFax, HelloFax, or Mailfax work well. Furthermore, you can fax from email through these services. As a result, no physical fax machine is needed.

Step 5: Wait 4 to 7 Business Days

The IRS processes faxed applications within 4 to 7 business days. Furthermore, they fax back your EIN to the return number you provided. As a result, you receive your EIN faster than by mail.

Step 6: Wait for CP-575 Letter (4 to 6 weeks)

Like phone applications, the IRS mails the CP-575 to your foreign address. As a result, keep this letter safe.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Your EIN by Mail

Mail is the slowest method. Therefore, use it only as a last resort.

Step 1: Complete Form SS-4 (Day 1)

Fill out the form thoroughly.

Step 2: Print and Sign (Day 1)

Print the completed form. Furthermore, sign in blue or black ink.

Step 3: Mail via International Courier (Day 1)

Use DHL, FedEx, or UPS for tracked delivery. As a result, you can track delivery and confirm receipt.

Mail to: Internal Revenue Service Attn: EIN International Operation Cincinnati, OH 45999 USA

Step 4: Wait 4 to 6 Weeks

The IRS processes mailed applications within 4 to 6 weeks. As a result, this is the slowest method.

Step 5: Receive CP-575 Letter (4 to 6 weeks)

You receive your CP-575 with the EIN by mail.

EIN Application Through Third-Party Services

Several services apply for EINs on your behalf. Therefore, here are the options in 2026.

doola

doola handles full LLC formation, EIN application, and ongoing compliance. Furthermore, the EIN is included in their formation package. As a result, you save time but pay a service fee.

Service: LLC formation + EIN Cost: $297 to $497 (formation packages, EIN included) EIN Processing Time: 2 to 6 weeks through Form SS-4 fax

Firstbase

Firstbase offers similar services with a focus on tech startups. Furthermore, they handle Delaware C-corp formation alongside LLC.

Service: LLC or C-corp formation + EIN Cost: $399 to $599 EIN Processing Time: 2 to 4 weeks

Stripe Atlas

Stripe Atlas includes EIN application in their formation package. Furthermore, they specialize in C-corps for global founders.

Service: LLC or C-corp formation + EIN + Mercury bank account Cost: $500 one-time EIN Processing Time: 2 to 6 weeks

EIN-Specific Services

Some services focus only on EIN application. For example:

• IRS-EIN-Tax-ID.com: $279 to $349
• GovDocFiling: $189 to $245
• EIN International: $79 to $199
• Active Filings: $99 to $249

In addition, these services complete Form SS-4 and submit on your behalf. As a result, you avoid the manual phone or fax process.

Should You Use a Third-Party Service?

Third-party services save time but add cost. Therefore, weigh the trade-offs:

Use a service if:

• You want everything done for you
• Time to call the IRS or fax forms is not available
• The same service is forming your LLC

Apply yourself if:

• You have 2 hours for the IRS phone call
• Saving $80 to $500 matters to you
• Your LLC is already formed

Time Frames for Each Method

Different methods have different processing times. Therefore, here is the comparison.

In addition, phone is by far the fastest. As a result, most foreign founders prefer this method despite the long hold times.

After You Receive Your EIN

Getting the EIN is just step one. Therefore, here is what to do next.

Step 1: Verify the EIN

Confirm the EIN by calling the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at (800) 829-4933 or international line at (267) 941-1099. Furthermore, ask them to verify your EIN matches your business name. As a result, you avoid using a wrong number.

Step 2: Wait for or Request CP-575

The IRS mails your CP-575 confirmation letter to your foreign address. Furthermore, banks require this exact letter to open accounts. As a result, store it safely.

If your CP-575 does not arrive in 6 weeks, request a 147C verification letter. The 147C is a duplicate confirmation that most banks accept. To request it, call the IRS and ask for “Form 147C verification letter.”

Step 3: Open a US Business Bank Account

With your EIN and CP-575 in hand, open a US business bank account. For example, top choices include:

• Mercury (most popular for foreign founders)
• Relay (free, multiple account features)
• Wise Business (multi-currency)
• Brex or Ramp (for funded startups)

In addition, most fintech accounts open online without requiring a US visit.

Step 4: Set Up Payment Processors

Connect your EIN to:

• Stripe (use Stripe Atlas integration or apply directly)
• PayPal Business
• Square (if applicable)
• Shopify Payments (for Shopify stores)

As a result, you can accept US customer payments globally.

Step 5: Register for State Tax Accounts

If your LLC operates in specific states, register for state tax accounts. For example, sales tax, employer tax, and franchise tax may apply. Furthermore, requirements vary by state.

Step 6: Set Up Bookkeeping

Choose accounting software:

• QuickBooks Online ($35 to $235/month)
• Xero ($15 to $80/month)
• Wave (free)
• Bench (full-service bookkeeping, $349+/month)

As a result, you can track income and expenses from day one.

Step 7: File IRS Form 5472 Annually

If you own a single-member foreign-owned US LLC, you must file Form 5472 and pro forma Form 1120 every year. Furthermore, the penalty for missing this is $25,000 minimum. As a result, never skip this filing.

Step 8: File BOI Report with FinCEN

Within 30 to 90 days of forming your LLC, file a Beneficial Ownership Information report at boiefiling.fincen.gov. Furthermore, the filing is free. As a result, never pay a service for BOI filing unless you want done-for-you compliance.

Common Problems and How to Solve Them

Foreign founders face specific EIN challenges. Therefore, here are common problems and solutions.

Problem 1: Long Hold Times on IRS Phone Line

The IRS international line often has 30 to 90 minute waits. Furthermore, some founders wait 2+ hours.

Solution: Call early (6:00 to 7:00 AM Eastern) or late (after 7:00 PM Eastern). Furthermore, avoid Mondays and post-holiday Tuesdays.

Problem 2: Fax Application Not Returned

Sometimes the IRS does not fax back the EIN even when you provide a return fax number.

Solution: Wait 10 business days, then call the IRS to check status. Furthermore, request the EIN over the phone if needed.

Problem 3: CP-575 Letter Lost or Not Received

International mail sometimes loses letters. As a result, you may never receive your CP-575.

Solution: Call the IRS and request a 147C verification letter. Furthermore, banks accept 147C in place of CP-575.

Problem 4: IRS Agent Refuses Application

Some IRS agents are inexperienced with foreign applications. Furthermore, they may say you cannot get an EIN without SSN. As a result, hang up and call again.

Solution: Politely thank the agent and try again. Furthermore, escalate to a supervisor if needed. As a result, most foreign applications eventually get approved.

Problem 5: Wrong Entity Type Selected on Form SS-4

Some founders accidentally select wrong entity type. As a result, the EIN is issued under wrong tax classification.

Solution: File Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) to correct the classification. Furthermore, this is also how single-member LLCs elect S-corp status later.

Problem 6: EIN Issued But Address is Wrong

Sometimes the IRS issues the EIN but uses your registered agent address as your primary. As a result, all IRS mail goes there.

Solution: File Form 8822-B (Change of Address) to update your mailing address. Furthermore, this ensures you receive important IRS correspondence directly.

Problem 7: Receiving Tax Notices for Income You Did Not Earn

The IRS sometimes sends notices for taxes you do not owe. Furthermore, this often happens to new EIN holders.

Solution: Respond to every IRS notice within 30 days. In addition, hire a cross-border CPA if the issue is complex.

ITIN: A Related But Different Tax ID

ITIN is often confused with EIN. Therefore, understanding the difference matters.

What Is an ITIN?

ITIN stands for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Furthermore, it is a personal tax ID for individuals who cannot get an SSN. As a result, it serves a different purpose than EIN.

When You Need an ITIN

You may need an ITIN if you:

• Earn US-source income personally (not through your LLC)
• Need to file Form 1040-NR personally
• Are a non-resident partner in a US partnership
• Need to claim tax treaty benefits
• Apply for certain US bank credit products
• Plan to invest in US real estate personally

How to Get an ITIN

ITIN application uses Form W-7. Furthermore, you submit it with your tax return or supporting documents. As a result, the process is more complex than EIN.

Method 1: File W-7 with Tax Return: Mail Form W-7 with your Form 1040-NR. Furthermore, include certified passport copy or use an IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA). Processing takes 8 to 14 weeks.

Option 2: File Through CAA: Hire an IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent. Furthermore, they verify your identity and submit on your behalf. As a result, you do not mail your original passport.

Path 3: Apply at IRS Office in the US: If you visit the US, apply at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center. However, you must schedule an appointment in advance.

ITIN Cost

Direct IRS ITIN application is free. However, Certifying Acceptance Agents charge $200 to $800. As a result, weigh the convenience against the cost.

EIN vs ITIN: Key Differences

Scam Warnings: How to Spot Fake EIN Services

Foreign founders face EIN scams. Therefore, watch for these warning signs.

Red Flag 1: Charges for “Government Fees”

The IRS does not charge any fee for issuing an EIN. Furthermore, the EIN itself is 100% free. As a result, anyone claiming to charge “government EIN fees” is misleading you.

Some services legitimately charge for their work in filling out forms. However, they cannot charge “government fees” because none exist.

Red Flag 2: Fake EIN Letters

Scammers sometimes send fake EIN confirmation letters. Furthermore, these are not from the IRS. As a result, verify every EIN by calling the IRS directly.

Red Flag 3: Demands for Cash or Crypto Payment

Real EIN services accept credit cards and bank transfers. Therefore, anyone demanding cash or cryptocurrency raises concerns.

Red Flag 4: Domains That Look Like IRS

Scammers register domains like “irs-ein-application.com” or “irs-tax-id-online.net” to look official. However, the real IRS domain is irs.gov only. As a result, double-check every URL.

Red Flag 5: Promises of “Same-Day EIN” Through Special Channels

Only the IRS phone line offers same-day EIN. Furthermore, no third-party service can deliver same-day EIN. As a result, claims of “instant EIN in 5 minutes” through services are misleading.

Red Flag 6: Aggressive Upselling After EIN

Some services aggressively push add-ons like fake “compliance packages.” Furthermore, they create urgency around penalties that do not exist. As a result, only buy what you truly need.

Red Flag 7: Asking for Bank Login or Sensitive Information

Real EIN services need basic information for Form SS-4. Furthermore, they never need your bank passwords. Therefore, anyone asking for sensitive credentials is a scammer.

Verification Steps

• Verify any service on Trustpilot, BBB, and G2
• Check WHOIS information on their domain
• Search “[service name] scam” before paying
• Confirm the IRS phone number: (267) 941-1099 for international
• Confirm the IRS fax number: (855) 641-6935 for foreign applicants
• Verify EIN by calling the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line at (800) 829-4933

If you suspect fraud, report it to:

• FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
• Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration: tigta.gov
• Your credit card company (for chargebacks)

State Tax Registrations After EIN

The federal EIN is just the first step. Furthermore, your LLC may need state tax IDs.

Sales Tax Registration

If you sell taxable goods or services, you may need state sales tax registration. For example:

• California: California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA)
• New York: New York State Department of Taxation and Finance
• Texas: Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
• Florida: Florida Department of Revenue

In addition, sales tax nexus rules vary. Furthermore, the Wayfair v. South Dakota ruling expanded economic nexus. As a result, even online-only businesses may owe sales tax in multiple states.

State Income Tax

Some states tax LLC income. For example:

• California: $800 minimum annual tax plus income tax
• New York: State income tax on LLC earnings
• Texas: No income tax but franchise tax applies
• Wyoming and Delaware: No state income tax on LLC pass-through

As a result, choose your operating state carefully.

Employer Tax Accounts

If you hire employees, register with:

• State unemployment insurance
• Workers compensation board (state-level)
• Withholding tax account (state-level)

In addition, payroll services like Gusto, Deel, and ADP handle these registrations.

Foreign Qualification

If your LLC operates in states other than where it is registered, you must “foreign qualify.” For instance, California foreign qualification costs $800+ annually. As a result, plan your operating states carefully.

Government Resources and Support

These agencies and resources help foreign founders get and use EINs.

Federal Agencies

• Internal Revenue Service (IRS): For EIN application and verification. irs.gov
• IRS International Line: (267) 941-1099 (Monday to Friday, 6 AM to 11 PM ET)
• Foreign Fax Number (IRS): (855) 641-6935
• Business and Specialty Tax Line (IRS): (800) 829-4933 (for EIN verification)
• FinCEN: For BOI reporting. fincen.gov, boiefiling.fincen.gov

Form Downloads

• Form SS-4: irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-ss-4
• W-7 Form (ITIN): irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-7
• 8832 Form (Entity Classification): irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8832
• 5472 Form (Foreign-owned LLC): irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-5472
• Address Change Form 8822-B: irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8822-b

Service Providers

• doola: LLC + EIN + tax compliance
• Firstbase: Incorporation + EIN
• Stripe Atlas: C-corp + EIN + banking
• Northwest Registered Agent: Formation + EIN
• ZenBusiness: Formation + EIN
• MyUSACorporation: Formation + EIN for non-US founders

Nigerian Embassy in Washington DC

For Nigerian founders, the embassy provides document authentication.

• Address: 3519 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008
• Phone: (202) 800-7201
• Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an EIN without an SSN, ITIN, or US address?

Yes. The IRS issues EINs to foreign founders without any US tax ID or address. Furthermore, you can apply by phone, fax, or mail. As a result, no US presence is required.

How long does it take to get an EIN as a foreigner?

Phone applications take 1 to 2 hours total. By contrast, fax takes 4 to 7 business days. In addition, mail takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Is the EIN application free?

Yes. The IRS does not charge any fee for EINs. Furthermore, only your phone, fax, or postage costs apply. As a result, anyone charging “IRS fees” is misleading you.

What if I do not have an LLC yet?

You need a US business entity to apply for an EIN. Furthermore, your LLC must be registered with the state first. As a result, complete your LLC formation before applying for the EIN.

Can I apply for an EIN before forming my LLC?

Not for an LLC EIN. However, sole proprietors can apply for EINs without entity formation. As a result, individual EINs are possible but rare for foreign founders.

Can I apply for an EIN online if I have a US business partner with SSN?

Yes, but only if your partner is the Responsible Party. Furthermore, the partner’s SSN becomes tied to the LLC. As a result, this is not ideal if you are the actual owner.

What if my CP-575 letter never arrives?

Call the IRS and request a 147C verification letter. Furthermore, the 147C is a duplicate confirmation that banks accept. As a result, you can still open accounts and operate.

Can I have multiple EINs for different businesses?

Yes. Every separate business entity gets its own EIN. However, you cannot apply for two EINs for the same entity. Furthermore, you cannot transfer an EIN between businesses.

What if I make a mistake on Form SS-4?

If you catch the mistake before the EIN is issued, call the IRS to correct it. By contrast, if the EIN is already issued with incorrect information, file Form 8822-B (for address) or contact the IRS for other corrections.

Will the IRS share my information with my home country?

The US has tax treaties with many countries. Furthermore, these often include information sharing. As a result, your home country tax authority may receive data about your US business. Therefore, declare your US business in your home country tax filings.

Do I owe US taxes once I have an EIN?

Having an EIN alone does not create tax liability. Furthermore, your tax obligations depend on your business activity. For example, foreign-owned single-member LLCs with no US-source income often owe zero US federal tax. As a result, consult a cross-border CPA to confirm your situation.

Can I cancel an EIN if I no longer need it?

The IRS does not technically “cancel” EINs. However, you can mark the EIN as inactive by closing your business and notifying the IRS. Furthermore, the EIN stays in IRS records permanently.

Final Thoughts: Your Path to a US EIN

How to get an EIN as a foreigner without an SSN in 2026 is straightforward once you know the right methods. Furthermore, the IRS specifically supports foreign applicants through its international phone line, foreign fax number, and mail address. As a result, founders from anywhere in the world can obtain US EINs without visiting the US.

First, form your US LLC or corporation through Wyoming, Delaware, or another state. Next, complete Form SS-4 carefully, with “Foreign” on Line 7b instead of an SSN. Then, choose your application method based on urgency. For example, phone delivers same-day EIN, while fax takes about a week. In addition, mail takes 4 to 6 weeks but works when other methods fail.

After receiving your EIN, store your CP-575 letter safely. Then, open a US business bank account, set up payment processors, and start operating. Furthermore, file Form 5472 and BOI reports on time to avoid penalties.

The most successful foreign founders do three things well. First, they apply for the EIN by phone as soon as the LLC is formed. Second, they use the EIN immediately to open Mercury or another US bank account. Third, they file all annual compliance forms (5472, BOI, state reports) to maintain good standing.

In addition, EIN is the foundation of your US business presence. As a result, getting it right opens doors to payments, platforms, banking, and future visa pathways. Therefore, the few hours invested in the application process pay off for years to come.

Start by downloading Form SS-4 from irs.gov. Then, complete it with the guidance in this article. Finally, call (267) 941-1099 to receive your EIN within hours. As a result, your foreign-owned US business gets its federal tax ID and is ready to operate.