How to Get an EIN in the U.S.—For Citizens & Foreigners!

Whether you’re launching a local business in Texas or forming an LLC from abroad to access the U.S. market, you’ll likely need an Employer Identification Number (EIN). This IRS-issued number is essential for paying taxes, opening a business bank account, hiring employees, and maintaining compliance with U.S. federal law. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to apply for an EIN —both as a U.S. citizen and as a foreign individual or business owner—in a way that’s simple, legal, and effective.

What Is an EIN?

An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is a 9-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It’s used to identify businesses for tax and reporting purposes. Think of it as your business’s equivalent of a Social Security Number.

Why Do You Need an Employer Identification Number?

You may need an EIN if you:

• Plan to hire employees in the U.S.

• Want to open a business bank account

• Need to apply for business licenses or permits

• Are you forming a Corporation, LLC, or Partnership

• Operate as a non-U.S. resident doing business in the U.S.

• Want to file federal and state business taxes

In short, if you’re serious about running a U.S.-based business—either locally or from abroad—an EIN is a key requirement.

Do You Need to Register a Business to Get an EIN?

For U.S. Citizens or Residents:

You don’t always need to register a business (like an LLC or Corporation) to apply for an EIN.

For example:

• Sole proprietors (operating under their personal name without forming an LLC) can get an EIN to separate business and personal finances or hire employees.

• Freelancers and gig workers may apply for an EIN voluntarily.

In these cases, the Employer Identification Number is tied to your Social Security Number (SSN) and individual tax status.

For Foreigners / Non-U.S. Residents:

The IRS may issue an EIN without full business registration if you can show a legitimate reason (like tax treaty benefits, U.S. income reporting, or owning property).

However, in practice:

• Most banks and payment processors require proof of U.S. business registration.

• Online marketplaces (like Amazon) may ask for a Certificate of Formation before accepting your EIN.

So while it’s not always a legal requirement, registering your business before applying for an Employer Identification Number is strongly recommended for non-residents.

How to Apply for an EIN (U.S. Citizens & Residents): –

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Details

• Legal name and business name

• Business structure (LLC, Sole Proprietor, Corporation, etc.)

• SSN or ITIN of the responsible party

• U.S. business address

Step 2: Apply Online (Fastest & Free)

Go to the IRS website and use the Employer Identification Number Assistant: IRS EIN Online Portal

• Available Monday–Friday (7 a.m. – 10 p.m. EST)

• EIN is issued instantly upon completion

Step 3: Save the Confirmation Letter

Keep the CP 575 letter for your records. It’s required for banking and tax purposes.

How to Get an EIN as a Foreign Individual or Non-U.S. Business: –

Even without a U.S. address or SSN, non-residents can still apply for an Employer Identification Number.

Step 1: Complete Form SS-4

Download the form: IRS Form SS-4 (PDF)

• Fill in your foreign entity’s name

• Write “Foreign” on Line 7b if you don’t have an SSN or ITIN

• Use a U.S. mailing address if available

Step 2: Submit the Form

• Fax: +1 855-215-1627 (fastest)

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

• Phone (for international applicants only): +1 267-941-1099

The phone option may give you your Employer Identification Number immediately after verifying your answers.

Tips for Foreign Applicants:

• You don’t need a U.S. Social Security Number to apply.

• You can use a business service provider’s U.S. address.

• Carefully complete Form SS-4 to avoid rejection.

If you’re unsure, getting help from a U.S.-based incorporation service can save time and ensure compliance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: –

Mistake	Why It Matters
Using incorrect details on Form SS-4	May delay or reject your EIN application
Applying online as a foreigner	The online tool is for U.S. applicants only
Not registering your business before applying	Can cause issues with banks and partners
Losing your CP 575 confirmation letter	You’ll need it for financial institutions

Final Thoughts: –

Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign founder expanding to the U.S., getting your Employer Identification Number is a critical first step. While U.S. residents can often apply without business registration, international founders are strongly encouraged to register first to meet practical requirements from banks, payment providers, and regulators.

If you need help forming a U.S. business or filing for an EIN from overseas, eCheckplan provides end-to-end support for both domestic and international entrepreneurs.