Process
Foreign EIN Application Guide
How to submit a foreign EIN application using Form SS-4. Line-by-line guidance for international applicants. No SSN needed. ein.so handles it for $49.
Line by Line
Form SS-4 for Foreign Applicants
Critical Fields
| Line | Field | Foreign Applicant Entry | |------|-------|-------------------------| | 1 | Legal name | Your LLC/entity name | | 2 | Trade name | DBA if different | | 3 | Executor/trustee | Your personal name | | 4a-4b | Mailing address | Your foreign address | | 7a | Responsible party | Your name (individual) | | 7b | SSN/ITIN | Passport number | | 9a | Type of entity | LLC/Corporation/etc | | 10 | Reason | Started new business | | 16 | Country | Your country of residence | | 18 | Third party designee | ein.so (if using service) |
For complete instructions, see SS-4 form guide. For responsible party guidance.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Fix | |---------|-----| | Using foreign tax ID on Line 7b | Use passport number | | Leaving Line 7b blank | Must provide identification | | Wrong entity type | Match your LLC/corp registration | | US address on Line 4 | Use your actual foreign address | | Missing signature | Sign the form |
See EIN rejection guide for more.
Next Steps
After Getting Your EIN
- Open a US bank account — Mercury, Relay, Wise
- File BOI report — Required for all LLCs
- File Form 5472 — Required for foreign-owned LLCs ($25,000 penalty)
- Set up payment processing — PayPal, Stripe, Amazon
Apply for EIN — $49 | EIN for non-residents | EIN for foreign nationals
Frequently Asked Questions
How do foreign entities apply for EIN?
Complete Form SS-4 with passport number on Line 7b, fax to 855-215-1627. Processing: 4-7 business days.
What replaces SSN on the application?
Your passport number. Enter it on Line 7b where the form asks for SSN or ITIN.
Can I apply online as a foreign applicant?
No. The IRS online tool requires SSN. Foreign applicants must use fax, phone, or ein.so.
What if my application is rejected?
Common reasons: missing passport number, wrong entity type. Fix the error and re-fax. See EIN rejection guide.
How much does ein.so charge?
$49 Standard (4-7 business days) or $97 Express. Includes SS-4 preparation, faxing, and EIN delivery by email.
Need an EIN? We Handle Everything.
Non-US resident? We file Form SS-4 with the IRS and deliver your EIN by email. Just $49.
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