Starting an LLC in the United States is exciting — but many foreigners and non-residents get stuck when they reach one important step: getting an EIN (Employer Identification Number).
If you don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), don’t worry — you can still get an EIN for your LLC legally.
This 2025 guide explains exactly how to get an EIN without SSN or ITIN, step by step.
🧩 What Is an EIN and Why You Need It?
An EIN is a 9-digit tax ID number issued by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) to identify your business for tax purposes.
You’ll need an EIN to:
- Open a U.S. business bank account.
- File federal or state taxes.
- Apply for Stripe, PayPal, or Amazon accounts.
- Hire employees or contractors.
Even if you are not a U.S. resident, you can still get an EIN for your LLC — you just need to apply the correct way.
❓ Can You Get an EIN Without SSN or ITIN?
✅ Yes, you can.
The IRS allows foreigners who don’t have SSN or ITIN to apply for an EIN manually using Form SS-4.
You will simply write “Foreign” in the SSN/ITIN field (line 7b) and submit the form via fax or mail to the IRS.
You do not need to be in the U.S. or have a visa to get your EIN.
🪜 Step-by-Step: How to Get EIN for LLC Without ITIN or SSN (2025)
Step 1: Prepare Your LLC Information
Before applying, make sure your LLC is already formed in a U.S. state (like Wyoming, Delaware, or Florida).
You will need:
- Your LLC’s legal name.
- The registered agent’s address.
- The responsible party’s name (you).
Step 2: Download and Fill Out IRS Form SS-4
You can download it directly from the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs
Complete the form as follows:
- Line 1: Your LLC name.
- Line 4a & 4b: Your registered agent’s address.
- Line 7a: Your full name (the responsible person).
- Line 7b: Write “Foreign” (leave SSN/ITIN blank).
- Line 8a: Check “Yes” (LLC).
- Line 9a: Choose “Other” and write “LLC – Disregarded Entity” or “LLC – Partnership” depending on your setup.
- Line 10: Write “To open a business bank account in the U.S.”
Step 3: Send the Form to the IRS
You can send the form in one of two ways:
Option 1 – Fax (faster):
📠 +1-855-215-1627 (for international applicants)
Option 2 – Mail:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999, USA
⏱️ How Long Does It Take to Get EIN Without SSN?
- By fax: about 2–4 weeks
- By mail: about 4–6 weeks
When approved, you’ll receive an EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) from the IRS, which you can use to open a U.S. bank account or create Stripe/PayPal accounts.
💡 Tips to Speed Up the EIN Process
- Use clear handwriting if you’re filling manually.
- Write “Foreign” clearly in the SSN field.
- Ensure your LLC name matches exactly what appears on your Articles of Organization.
- If you fax the form, include your international fax number or email for faster contact.
- Keep a copy of everything you send.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Leaving the purpose field blank on the form.
- ❌ Writing your home address instead of your U.S. registered agent address.
- ❌ Forgetting to sign the form.
- ❌ Expecting instant results — IRS takes time.
💬 FAQs About EIN Without SSN or ITIN
Q1: Can I apply for EIN online?
👉 No, foreigners without SSN/ITIN must apply by fax or mail.
Q2: Do I need to pay for EIN?
👉 No, the IRS issues EINs for free. Be careful with websites charging fees.
Q3: Can I get an EIN if my LLC isn’t formed yet?
👉 No, you need your approved LLC first.
Q4: Can someone apply for me?
👉 Yes, formation agencies or CPAs can apply on your behalf as third-party designees.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Getting an EIN for your LLC without ITIN or SSN in 2025 is completely legal and simple once you know the correct process.
You don’t need to be in the U.S. or have a visa — just follow the IRS instructions carefully, and your EIN will arrive in a few weeks.
It’s your key to starting a fully legal U.S. business from anywhere in the world.
📣 Learn More on LegalFlow.blog
For more guides about forming a U.S. LLC, getting EINs, and managing taxes for non-residents — visit LegalFlow.blog and explore our free 2025 business formation tutorials.