Step-by-Step Guide
How to Get an EIN Number in 2026
Everything you need to know about obtaining an Employer Identification Number from the IRS, whether you are a US resident or applying from abroad.
Short answer: There are three ways to get an EIN from the IRS in 2026.
US residents with an SSN or ITIN can apply online at irs.gov and receive their EIN instantly. Non-US residents without an SSN must use either the fax method (Form SS-4) or the IRS international phone line. The fax method is the most reliable path for non-residents and takes about 4 business days. This guide walks you through every method, step by step.
Overview
3 Ways to Get an EIN Number
The IRS offers three official methods for obtaining an Employer Identification Number. Each method has different eligibility requirements, processing times, and levels of convenience. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right path for your situation.
Apply Online
US residents with SSN/ITIN only
Processing: Instant
The fastest and easiest method. Complete the IRS online application on irs.gov and receive your EIN immediately upon submission. Available Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 10 PM Eastern Time.
Apply by Fax
Anyone (including non-residents)
Processing: ~4 business days
Complete Form SS-4 and fax it to the IRS. This is the primary method for non-US residents who do not have an SSN. The IRS will fax your EIN back to you within about 4 business days.
Apply by Phone
International applicants
Processing: Immediate (if you get through)
Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 267-941-1099. An agent can issue your EIN over the phone. However, long hold times and the English-only requirement make this challenging for many applicants.
Method 1
Apply Online (US Residents Only)
The IRS online EIN application is the fastest way to get your number. It is available on the IRS website at irs.gov. The entire process takes 15 minutes, and you receive your EIN immediately upon completion. The online system is available Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM Eastern Time, and processes over 3 million applications per year.
Application Methods Comparison
| Factor | Online | Fax (Form SS-4) | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | US residents with SSN/ITIN only | Anyone (including non-residents) | International applicants | Anyone |
| Processing Time | Instant | 4 business days | Immediate (if connected) | 4-6 weeks |
| IRS Cost | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Requires SSN/ITIN? | Yes | No | No | No |
| Language | English (web form) | English (written form) | English only (spoken) | English (written form) |
| Availability | Mon-Fri 7am-10pm ET | 24/7 (submit anytime) | Mon-Fri 6am-11pm ET | N/A (mail anytime) |
| Confirmation | On-screen (print it) | Fax or mail (CP 575) | Verbal + mail (CP 575) | Mail (CP 575) |
| Difficulty | Easy | Moderate | Hard (1-2+ hour hold times) | Easy (but very slow) |
Step-by-Step: Online Application
- 1Go to the IRS EIN Assistant on irs.gov. The application is available Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM Eastern Time.
- 2Select your entity type (sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.). This determines which questions you will be asked.
- 3Enter the responsible party's SSN or ITIN. This is the individual who controls, manages, or directs the entity. This is the step that blocks non-residents -- you must have a valid SSN or ITIN to proceed.
- 4Provide your business details: legal name, trade name (if different), address, entity formation date, and reason for applying.
- 5Review and submit. Your EIN is generated instantly. Print or save the confirmation notice -- the IRS does not email it to you.
Why Non-Residents Cannot Use the Online Method
SSN/ITIN Requirement
The IRS online EIN application requires a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for the responsible party. Most non-US residents do not have either of these. Without one, the application cannot proceed past step 3. If you are a non-resident without an SSN or ITIN, you must use the fax or phone method instead. Read our detailed guide on getting an EIN without an SSN.
One important limitation: the online system only allows one EIN per responsible party per day. If you need multiple EINs, you will need to apply on separate days or use an alternative method for the additional applications.
Method 2
Apply by Fax (Form SS-4)
Faxing Form SS-4 to the IRS is the most reliable method for non-US residents to obtain an EIN. As outlined in IRS Publication 1635, non-residents must fax Form SS-4 to the IRS at (855) 641-6935 since the online application at irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online is available to US residents only. Unlike the online application, the fax method does not require an SSN or ITIN. You fill out the form, fax it to the appropriate IRS number, and wait for your EIN to be faxed back. The typical processing time is 4 business days.
Step-by-Step: Fax Application
- 1Download Form SS-4 from the IRS website (irs.gov). The form is a single page with 18 lines. Refer to the IRS instructions for line-by-line guidance.
- 2Complete every required field. Key information includes: legal name of the entity, trade name (if any), mailing address, entity type (LLC, corporation, etc.), state of organization, date business started, principal activity, and reason for applying.
- 3Include a fax cover sheet with your return fax number or indicate you want the response mailed. If you include a return fax number, the IRS will fax the EIN assignment letter (CP 575) to that number.
- 4Fax to the correct number. For international applicants (outside the US), fax to 855-215-1627. For domestic applicants (within the US), fax to 855-641-6935.
- 5Wait for your EIN. The IRS processes faxed SS-4 forms within 4 business days. If you provided a return fax number, your EIN assignment notice will be faxed back. Otherwise, it will be mailed to the address on the form.
Why the Fax Method Is Best for Non-Residents
The fax method is the best option for non-residents because it is straightforward, well-documented, and has a predictable 4-business-day processing time. Unlike the phone method, you do not need to navigate 1-2 hour hold times or communicate entirely in English over the phone.
Common Fax Filing Mistakes to Avoid
The most common issue with faxed applications is incomplete or incorrectly filled forms, which lead to rejection and add 1-2 weeks of delay. The top 3 errors are: leaving the entity type blank, using an incorrect address format for international addresses, and failing to sign the form. Make sure every required field is completed accurately. Refer to the IRS instructions included with Form SS-4 for field-by-field guidance.
Method 3
Apply by Phone (International Line)
The IRS maintains a dedicated phone line for international applicants who need an EIN. By calling 267-941-1099 (not a toll-free number), you can speak with an IRS agent who can issue your EIN immediately over the phone. The line is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time.
What to Expect When You Call
- Long hold times. Wait times can range from 30 minutes to over 2 hours depending on the time of year and day of the week. Peak tax season (January through April) is particularly busy.
- English only. The IRS agents on this line conduct the conversation entirely in English. If English is not your first language, this can make the process difficult and increase the risk of miscommunication.
- Have your information ready. The agent will ask for the same information that is on Form SS-4: legal name, business name, entity type, address, reason for applying, and the responsible party's details.
- Immediate issuance. If the agent can verify your information and everything checks out, they will issue your EIN during the call and provide it to you verbally. You will also receive a written confirmation (CP 575 notice) by mail.
- International calling costs. Since 267-941-1099 is a US number (Philadelphia area code), international callers will incur standard international calling rates. Consider using a VoIP service to reduce costs.
Phone vs Fax: Which Is Better?
While the phone method can get you an EIN immediately, the practical challenges -- 1-2+ hour hold times, English-only communication, international calling costs of $0.50-$2.00 per minute, and the risk of being disconnected -- make it less reliable than the fax method for most non-resident applicants. Over 70% of people who attempt the phone method eventually fall back to faxing Form SS-4 instead.
For International Applicants
How Non-Residents Get an EIN
If you are a non-US resident, your options are limited to the fax and phone methods described above. The online application is off-limits because it requires an SSN or ITIN. For the vast majority of non-resident applicants, faxing Form SS-4 is the recommended approach. It is predictable, well-documented, and does not require you to sit on hold for hours trying to communicate in English with an IRS agent.
That said, the fax process has its own challenges. You need to fill out Form SS-4 correctly (errors are the number one cause of rejection), you need access to a fax machine or online fax service, and you need to wait about 4 business days for the IRS to respond. If the form has errors, the IRS may reject it or assign the wrong type of EIN, creating complications down the road.
This Is What We Do at ein.so
We built ein.so specifically to solve this problem for non-US residents. We handle the entire fax-based SS-4 filing process:
| Feature | Standard ($49) | Express ($97) |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Time | 14 business days | 7 business days |
| SS-4 Preparation | Included | Included |
| IRS Fax Filing | Included | Priority submission |
| IRS Phone Follow-Up | Not included | Included |
| Delivery Method | Email (PDF) | Email (PDF) |
| SSN Required? | No | No |
| Rejection Refile | Free refile or full refund | Free refile or full refund |
- We complete your Form SS-4 accurately, tailored for non-resident applicants
- We fax it to the IRS international fax number (855-215-1627) on your behalf
- We monitor for the IRS response and deliver your EIN by email
- Express orders get priority fax submission plus phone follow-up with the IRS
- If rejected due to our error, we refile free or refund in full
For more details on the non-resident process and why an SSN is not required, note that the IRS allows applicants without an SSN or ITIN to use their foreign identification on Form SS-4. You can also learn more about what an EIN is and why you need one.
The Application Form
Form SS-4: What You Need
Form SS-4, officially titled “Application for Employer Identification Number,” is the IRS form used to apply for an EIN via fax, mail, or phone. Even if you apply by phone, the agent will ask you for the same information that appears on the form. Here is what you need to have ready before you start:
Required Information
Legal Name
The exact legal name of the business entity as registered
Trade Name
Your DBA (doing business as) name, if different from the legal name
Entity Type
Sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, partnership, trust, or other
Mailing Address
Where the IRS should send correspondence (US or foreign address)
Responsible Party
Name and SSN/ITIN of the individual who controls the entity (leave SSN blank if non-resident)
Reason for Applying
Started new business, banking purposes, hired employees, compliance, etc.
Date Business Started
The date you started or acquired the business, or plan to start
Principal Activity
A brief description of what the business does (e.g., consulting, e-commerce)
Filling out Form SS-4 correctly is critical. Errors in entity type, responsible party information, or address can lead to rejection or delays. Refer to the IRS instructions included with Form SS-4 for a complete line-by-line walkthrough of every field on the form.
Comparison
EIN Processing Time by Method
Processing times vary significantly depending on which method you use. The table below compares all three methods across key factors so you can make an informed decision.
| Factor | Online | Fax (SS-4) | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | Instant | ~4 business days | Immediate* |
| Requires SSN/ITIN? | Yes | No | No |
| Available to Non-Residents? | No | Yes | Yes |
| IRS Fee | Free | Free | Free |
| Availability | Mon-Fri 7am-10pm ET | 24/7 (submit anytime) | Mon-Fri 6am-11pm ET |
| Language | English (web form) | English (written form) | English only (spoken) |
| Difficulty Level | Easy | Moderate | Hard |
| Confirmation | On-screen (print it) | Fax or mail (CP 575) | Verbal + mail (CP 575) |
*Phone processing is immediate if you reach an agent, but hold times of 1-2+ hours are common.
Avoid These Mistakes
Common Reasons for EIN Rejection
5 Preventable Mistakes That Cause Rejection
Not every EIN application is approved on the first attempt. The IRS rejects an estimated 10-15% of faxed SS-4 applications. Understanding these 5 pitfalls before you apply saves days or weeks of delays.
Incomplete Form SS-4
Missing fields are the most common reason for rejection. Every required line on the form must be filled out. Leaving the entity type, address, or responsible party name blank will result in automatic rejection.
Duplicate Application
The IRS will reject your application if they determine that the entity already has an EIN on file. This happens when applicants submit multiple applications or when a previously registered entity applies again.
Incorrect Entity Type
Selecting the wrong entity classification (for example, choosing 'sole proprietor' when you formed an LLC) creates a mismatch in the IRS system and can cause rejection or assignment of an incorrect EIN type.
Responsible Party Mismatch
The responsible party named on the SS-4 must be an individual (not an entity) who has authority to control the business. If the IRS cannot verify the responsible party's identity, the application may be held or rejected.
Illegible Fax Submission
Poor fax quality, handwriting that cannot be read, or forms that are cut off can cause the IRS to reject or ignore your application. Always use typed forms and confirm your fax was sent successfully.
Next Steps
What to Do After Getting Your EIN
Congratulations -- once your EIN is issued, you have a permanent federal tax identification number for your business. But getting the number is just the first step. Here is what you should do next to put your EIN to work and stay compliant with the IRS.
1. Open a US Business Bank Account
One of the most common reasons non-residents need an EIN is to open a US business bank account. With your EIN, you can approach US banks that accept non-resident business accounts. Many online-first banks like Mercury, Relay, or traditional institutions like Chase or Bank of America offer business accounts for foreign-owned entities. You need your EIN confirmation letter (CP 575), your formation documents (like Articles of Organization), and valid government-issued ID.
2. Set Up Payment Processing
If you plan to accept payments from US customers, you will need your EIN to set up merchant accounts or payment processors like Stripe, PayPal, or Square. These services require a valid EIN for tax reporting purposes. Having your EIN ready before applying will speed up the verification and onboarding process significantly.
3. Understand Your Tax Obligations
An EIN comes with tax responsibilities. Depending on your entity type and business activity, you may need to file annual tax returns, pay estimated taxes, or submit informational returns. Non-resident owners of US LLCs may need to file Form 5472 and a pro-forma Form 1120. Consult with a tax professional familiar with international tax law to understand your specific obligations.
4. Keep Your EIN Confirmation Safe
Your EIN confirmation letter (IRS Notice CP 575) is the official document proving your EIN assignment. Keep it in a safe place. You will need it when opening bank accounts, applying for licenses, and filing taxes. If you lose it, you can request a verification letter (IRS Letter 147C) by calling the IRS, but this process can take time.
5. Stay Compliant
Make sure you file all required returns on time. For many non-resident-owned single-member LLCs, the annual filing deadline is April 15 (or the extended deadline of October 15 with an extension). Failing to file can result in penalties starting at $25,000 per year for Form 5472. Staying on top of compliance from day one will save you from costly problems later.
Learn More
Application Resources
IRS Form SS-4 Guide
Line-by-line walkthrough of the SS-4 form required to apply for an EIN.
Get EIN Without SSN
How non-residents and foreign nationals can obtain an EIN without a Social Security Number.
EIN Processing Time
Current IRS processing times for online, fax, phone, and mail EIN applications.
EIN Rejection Guide
Common reasons the IRS rejects EIN applications and how to fix them.
EIN for Non-Residents
Complete guide for international entrepreneurs applying for a US EIN from abroad.
What Is an EIN?
Everything you need to know about Employer Identification Numbers and why they matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an EIN without a Social Security Number (SSN)?
Yes. Non-US residents who do not have an SSN or ITIN can still obtain an EIN by submitting Form SS-4 to the IRS by fax or by calling the IRS international line. The online application is not available without an SSN or ITIN.
How long does it take to get an EIN?
It depends on the method. The online application issues an EIN instantly. Faxing Form SS-4 takes about 4 business days. Calling the IRS international phone line can result in an immediate EIN, but hold times are often very long.
Is there a fee for getting an EIN from the IRS?
No. The IRS does not charge any fee for issuing an EIN. It is completely free whether you apply online, by fax, or by phone. Third-party services like ein.so charge a service fee for handling the application process on your behalf.
Can a non-US resident apply for an EIN online?
No. The IRS online EIN application requires a valid SSN or ITIN, which most non-US residents do not have. Non-residents must use either the fax method (Form SS-4) or the international phone line to obtain an EIN.
What is Form SS-4 and where do I get it?
Form SS-4 is the official IRS Application for Employer Identification Number. You can download it for free from the IRS website (irs.gov). The form asks for your legal name, business details, entity type, and reason for applying.
What happens if my EIN application is rejected?
Common reasons for rejection include incomplete information, duplicate applications, or incorrect entity classification. If rejected, you will need to correct the errors and resubmit. The IRS sends a notice explaining the reason for the rejection.
Do I need a US address to get an EIN?
No. You can use a foreign address on your Form SS-4 application. However, having a US mailing address can simplify future IRS correspondence. Many non-residents use a registered agent address in the US.
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