The EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your US business tax ID. Without it, you can’t open a US business bank account, activate Stripe or PayPal Business, or file US taxes. US residents get one online in minutes. Non-residents without an SSN use IRS Form SS-4 — here’s exactly how.
The Non-Resident Process: Form SS-4
Foreign applicants fax the completed SS-4 to the IRS’s dedicated foreign-applicant line: your LLC’s legal name and address, the responsible party’s details (you — a foreign address is fine), reason for applying, and business activity. Processing is manual — expect several weeks.
5 Mistakes That Get SS-4 Applications Rejected
- Wrong responsible party details (must match ID exactly).
- Missing/incorrect business address.
- Applying before the LLC is approved.
- Duplicate applications.
- Illegible fax.
EIN vs ITIN
EIN = tax ID for your business. ITIN = tax ID for individuals filing US personal taxes without an SSN. Most non-resident LLC owners need an EIN.
What Comes After the EIN?
Open your US business bank account, set up Stripe/PayPal Business, and mark your tax calendar.
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