How to Get an EIN Without a Social Security Number

You don't need a Social Security Number to get an EIN for your LLC. Here's exactly how international founders obtain an EIN from the IRS.

Overview

The IRS issues EINs to all US business entities, regardless of whether the owners are US citizens. While US residents with SSNs can apply online and receive their EIN instantly, international founders must use alternative methods.

Three options are available:

1. Fax: Fastest method (4-7 business days)
2. Mail: Slowest method (4-6 weeks)
3. Phone: Can work but difficult (long wait times)

Application Methods Compared

Applying by Fax (Recommended)

Fax is the most reliable method for international applicants.

Step 1: Complete Form SS-4

Download Form SS-4 from the IRS website. Fill out:

• Line 1: Your LLC's legal name
• Line 4a-b: Your LLC's mailing address (can be your foreign address)
• Line 7a-b: Your name as the responsible party
• Line 9a: Check "LLC"
• Line 9b: Number of members
• Line 10: Why you need an EIN (check "Banking purpose")
• Line 16: Leave blank (this is for SSN/ITIN which you don't have)

Step 2: Prepare Supporting Information

Include a brief note explaining:

• You are a foreign national without an SSN or ITIN
• Your LLC was formed in [State] on [Date]
• Include your fax number for the response

Step 3: Fax to the IRS

Fax Form SS-4 to: (855) 641-6935

Use an online fax service if you don't have a fax machine. Services like HelloFax, eFax, or FaxZero work fine.

Step 4: Receive Your EIN

The IRS will fax your EIN back within 4-7 business days. Save this fax confirmation as your official EIN assignment notice.

Applying by Mail

If fax isn't an option, you can mail Form SS-4:

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

Use trackable international mail. Expect 4-6 weeks for processing plus mail delivery time.

Common Issues and Solutions

Form Rejected

If your form is rejected, common reasons include:

• Incomplete information (review all required fields)
• LLC name doesn't match state records (use exact name)
• Missing LLC designation (include "LLC" in the name)

No Response Received

• Wait at least 10 business days for fax, 6 weeks for mail
• Verify fax was sent successfully (check confirmation)
• Resubmit if no response after expected timeframe

Duplicate EIN

If you accidentally applied multiple times and received multiple EINs, only use the first one issued. Contact the IRS to cancel duplicates.

Frequently Asked Questions