Online at IRS.gov, an EIN is immediate — about 15 minutes in a single session — but you need an SSN or ITIN. Faxing Form SS-4 takes about 4 business days and requires no SSN or ITIN, making it the fastest route for most non-residents. Mail takes 4–6 weeks. Phone is same-day but only for certain international applicants.
EIN timeline by method
| Method | Who can use it | EIN in hand |
|---|---|---|
| Online (IRS.gov) | SSN or ITIN holders | Immediate, same session |
| Fax (Form SS-4) | Anyone, including non-residents | ~4 business days |
| Mail (Form SS-4) | Anyone | 4–6 weeks |
| Phone (+1 267-941-1099) | Certain international applicants | Same day |
Why non-residents can’t use the online tool
The IRS online assistant requires the responsible party’s SSN or ITIN to validate identity. Without one, the application can’t proceed online — this is exactly why fax exists as the practical fast lane for international founders.
The CP 575 letter — don’t lose it
Whatever method you use, the IRS mails the official confirmation — Notice CP 575 — to the address on your Form SS-4 about 4–6 weeks after the EIN is assigned. It is issued only once. Keep it somewhere safe: banks and payment processors sometimes ask for it specifically. Lost it? Request a replacement verification letter (147C) through the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933.
What slows applications down
- Name mismatch: the business name on Form SS-4 must match your state filing exactly.
- Nominee responsible party: the responsible party must be a real person who actually controls the entity — listing a nominee can invalidate the application.
- Duplicate applications: applying twice “just in case” creates confusion and delays. The IRS allows one EIN per responsible party per day.
- Missing signatures or return fax number on faxed forms.
Planning tips
- Fax at least two weeks before you need the EIN for banking or Stripe — the 4-day average slips during tax season.
- Facing a tax deadline without your EIN? Write “Applied For” and the date on the return, then supply the EIN when it arrives.
- Third-party designee: Form SS-4 lets you authorize a formation agent or CPA to receive the EIN on your behalf — useful if faxing from abroad is awkward.
Frequently asked questions
Is an EIN free? Yes — the IRS never charges for an EIN. Paid “EIN services” are just filling out the form for you.
Can I expedite an EIN? There is no official expedite channel. Fax is the fastest realistic option for applicants without an SSN or ITIN.
Can I open a bank account while the EIN is pending? Most banks want the EIN in hand first. A few will start onboarding with the application pending — ask the bank directly.
Do I need an EIN for a single-member LLC with no employees? Effectively yes — you’ll need it for business banking, Stripe or PayPal, and most tax filings.
Related:
- How to Get an EIN Without an SSN (Non-Resident Guide 2026)
- ITIN for Non-Residents: How to Get One for Your US LLC (2026)
- How to Form a US LLC as a Non-Resident (2026 Guide)
Epics Deals includes EIN filing free with every $130 + state fee formation (ITIN applications $180) — for non-resident and US-resident founders.
Free: US LLC Compliance Checklist
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