Quick Answer

To get an EIN without a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), you must download IRS Form SS-4, fill it out manually, write the word "Foreign" on line 7b (where it asks for an SSN), and fax or mail it to the IRS. You cannot use the online EIN application.

Key Points for 2026

  • No Online Application: The IRS online EIN portal requires a valid SSN or ITIN. Non-US residents are blocked from using it.
  • Fax is Best: Faxing your Form SS-4 is the fastest method (currently taking 4-8 weeks). Mailing can take months.
  • Third-Party Designee: You can hire a service to apply for you by filling out the "Third-Party Designee" section at the bottom of the form.
  • It is Free: The IRS does not charge a fee to issue an EIN.

Step-by-Step Guide to Form SS-4

Step 1: Form Your LLC First

Do not apply for an EIN until your state has officially approved your Articles of Organization. If you apply for an EIN and your desired LLC name is rejected by the state, your EIN will be attached to the wrong name.

Step 2: Download Form SS-4

Go to the IRS website and download the official PDF for Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number).

Step 3: Fill Out the Form (The Important Lines)

Most of the form is straightforward, but pay attention to these specific lines for foreign owners:

  • Line 1 (Legal Name): Exactly as it appears on your Articles of Organization.
  • Line 4a (Mailing Address): Where you want the IRS to send the physical confirmation letter. We strongly recommend using your US Virtual Mailbox or Registered Agent address.
  • Line 7b (SSN/ITIN): Write the word "Foreign" in this box. This is the crucial step that tells the IRS why you left it blank.
  • Line 8a (Is this application for an LLC?): Check "Yes."
  • Line 9a (Type of entity): If you are a single-member LLC, do NOT check "Partnership" or "Corporation." Check "Other" and write "Disregarded Entity - Foreign Owned." If you are a multi-member LLC, check "Partnership."
  • Line 18 (Has the applicant ever applied for an EIN?): Check "No" if this is a brand new LLC.
The Signature Requirement

The IRS requires a physical, "wet ink" signature on Form SS-4. You cannot just type your name in Adobe Acrobat. You must print the form, sign it with a pen, and scan it back into your computer before faxing.

Step 4: Fax the Form to the IRS

The IRS has a dedicated fax line for international applicants. As of 2026, the fax number for applicants without a principal place of business in the US is: +1 (855) 215-1627 (from within the US) or +1 (304) 707-9471 (from outside the US).

Use a digital fax service (like eFax or HelloFax) if you don't have a physical fax machine. Make sure to provide a return fax number on your SS-4 so the IRS can fax the EIN confirmation letter (CP-575) back to you.

Patience is Required

The IRS is notoriously slow with faxed applications. Do not submit the form multiple times. Multiple submissions will confuse the system and further delay your application. Wait at least 6 weeks before calling the IRS to check on the status.

Example Scenario

The Situation: Chloe lives in the UK and forms a Delaware LLC. She goes to the IRS website to get her EIN and gets an error message asking for her SSN.

The Mistake: Chloe tries to enter her UK National Insurance Number, or she gets frustrated and gives up.

The Reality: Chloe simply needs to download Form SS-4, write "Foreign" on line 7b, and use an online fax service to send it to the IRS. Four weeks later, the IRS will fax her the CP-575 confirmation letter containing her new EIN.

What to Do Next

  1. Form your LLC and wait for state approval.
  2. Download Form SS-4 and prepare it according to the instructions above.
  3. Sign the form manually (the IRS requires a wet signature or an acceptable digital equivalent) and fax it.
  4. Wait to open your bank account. You cannot open a US business bank account until you receive the EIN.

Official Sources