How to Get an EIN Without an SSN: A Guide for Non-US Residents (2026)
If you're forming a US LLC from outside the United States, the EIN is the piece that unlocks everything else — your bank account, Stripe, and the ability to operate as a real US business. The good news: you do not need a Social Security Number (SSN) to get one.
What an EIN actually is
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a nine-digit tax ID issued by the IRS. Think of it as a Social Security Number for your company. Banks and payment processors ask for it to verify that your business is a registered US entity.
The SSN myth
The online IRS application requires an SSN or ITIN, which is why so many non-residents get stuck. But the online tool isn't the only path. Form SS-4 can be filed by fax or mail, and on that form you can be your company's responsible party without an SSN.
Filing Form SS-4 as a non-resident
- Complete Form SS-4 with your LLC's details.
- On the responsible-party line, enter your name and write "Foreign" where an SSN/ITIN would go.
- Submit by fax and wait for the IRS to assign your number.
Prefer not to deal with the IRS directly? As part of every package, LLC Register acts as your IRS Third-Party Designee and obtains your EIN and official Letter 147C for you — no SSN or ITIN required.
After you have your EIN
With your EIN in hand, you can apply for a US business bank account and begin Stripe onboarding. We help you qualify for both; final approval rests with the providers.
This article is for general information only and is not legal or tax advice.