An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is the federal tax ID for your LLC. Banks ask for it, payment platforms ask for it, and the IRS uses it for every filing your company makes. If you live outside the United States and have no Social Security Number, you can still get one — you just cannot use the instant online application.
Why the online application will not work
The IRS online EIN tool asks the “responsible party” for an SSN or ITIN. Most non-resident founders have neither, so the application stops there. The paper route, Form SS-4, has no such requirement: you write “Foreign” in the SSN/ITIN line and the IRS issues the number anyway.
The three ways to submit Form SS-4
- By fax — usually the fastest paper route. The IRS faxes the EIN confirmation back when you include a return fax number.
- By phone — international applicants can call the IRS international line during U.S. business hours and receive the EIN at the end of the call.
- By mail — the slowest option; expect several weeks.
What you need before you apply
- Your LLC must already be formed. The IRS asks for the legal name exactly as filed with the state.
- Your U.S. business address — normally your registered agent or a mailing address service.
- The responsible party’s full name and foreign address.
- The number of members, which decides whether the LLC is a disregarded entity or a partnership for tax purposes.
Common mistakes
The name on the SS-4 not matching the Articles of Organization is the most common reason for delays. The second is choosing the wrong entity classification: a single-member LLC owned by a foreign person is a disregarded entity by default, and that choice has filing consequences you will want to understand first — see our post on Form 5472.
Keep the EIN confirmation letter (CP 575) safe. Banks often ask to see it, and the IRS will not reissue the original.
This post is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change; confirm your own situation with a qualified professional before you file.
