How to get an EIN without an SSN

By the FileUSLLC team · Last updated October 10, 2026 · General information, not legal or tax advice

An EIN is a nine-digit number the IRS assigns to identify a business for tax purposes. Banks and payment providers usually ask for one. Getting an EIN directly from the IRS is free.

Why foreign owners can't just apply online

The IRS online EIN application asks for a U.S. taxpayer ID (an SSN or ITIN) for the responsible party. If you don't have one, you can't use the online tool. You apply on paper Form SS-4 instead, by fax, by mail, or, for international applicants, by phone.

Steps

1. Form your LLC first. The EIN application uses your LLC's legal name and state details. How to form one as a non-U.S. resident.
2. Complete Form SS-4. If the responsible party has no SSN or ITIN, the IRS instructions say to enter "Foreign" or "N/A" on that line. Check the current instructions for the exact wording.
3. Choose how to submit. Use only the current phone number, fax number and mailing address published on irs.gov. They change, so don't rely on copies from other sites.
4. Keep the confirmation. The IRS sends a notice with your EIN. Keep it; banks often ask for it.

Who is the "responsible party"?

It's the individual who controls, manages or directs the entity and its funds. Per the IRS instructions, it must be a person, not another company, unless the applicant is a government entity. Read the instructions for the current definition.

How long does it take?

It depends on how you apply and how busy the IRS is. Published figures vary. Some sources cite a few business days for fax, others cite longer, and mail is slower. Check the IRS site for current timeframes. We don't promise a date, and nobody except the IRS controls the timing.

Common causes of delay

• The name or address on the form doesn't match the formation document.
• Missing or unclear responsible-party details.
• Using an outdated form version or an old fax number.
• Applying before the LLC has been approved by the state.

Can someone apply for me?

The SS-4 has a section for authorizing a third-party designee to receive the EIN on your behalf. Our optional EIN assistance prepares your Form SS-4 for the fax or phone route; the IRS decides whether and when to issue the EIN.