Skip to content
Compliance Desk by Vermilion Vitez

How to get an EIN when you have no SSN or ITIN

The IRS issues EINs for free, and an owner with no Social Security number or ITIN can still get one. The online tool requires a valid taxpayer identification number, so that owner files Form SS-4 by fax or by mail, or applies by phone if the business is based outside the U.S.

Last checked against the official sources listed on this page.

Published by Vermilion Vitez LLC, which sells LLC formation and resells registered-agent service fulfilled by Registered Agents Inc.

Why an LLC needs an EIN

An employer identification number is a federal tax ID for a business. The IRS lists a limited liability company among the entities that need an EIN, and an EIN is also what a bank usually asks for when a company opens an account. The IRS issues it for free.

The online tool and its limit

The IRS online application can be used only if the responsible party has a valid taxpayer identification number (the SS-4 instructions list an SSN, ITIN, or EIN) and the principal place of business is in the U.S. or a U.S. territory. When both are true, the EIN is issued immediately once the information is validated.

Applying without an SSN or ITIN

If the principal place of business is outside the U.S., the IRS directs applicants to apply by phone at 267-941-1099, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern time, or to submit Form SS-4 by fax (855-215-1627 within the U.S.; 304-707-9471 outside) or by mail to the IRS at Attn: EIN International Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999.

Form SS-4 is the application, and it asks for the responsible party, which is the person in charge of the entity and its assets.

Forming the entity before applying

The IRS says to register the entity with the state before applying for an EIN.

One per day, and keeping it current

EIN issuances are limited to one per responsible party per day, and the limit applies to online, telephone, fax, and mail requests alike. The IRS says to use only one method for each entity.

The responsible party, address, or location on the EIN must be kept current. The IRS requires changes to the responsible party to be reported on Form 8822-B within 60 days.

Confirming the EIN after it is issued

The IRS lists three ways to confirm an EIN. You can request an entity transcript, download a digital CP575 notice if your Business Tax Account is eligible, or call the business and specialty tax line and request Letter 147C.

Name and address format

The IRS accepts only letters, numbers, hyphens, and ampersands in a business name. Symbols, slashes, and apostrophes have to be replaced or spelled out, and street addresses are limited to 35 characters.

If a return or deposit is due before the EIN arrives, the IRS says to write Applied For and the date you applied in the space for the number. It also says not to show an SSN as an EIN.

Filing help

Vermilion Vitez prepares and submits the SS-4 for owners without an SSN as a paid service; the price is on its pricing page.

Related page on vermilionvitez.com: https://vermilionvitez.com/pricing

Official sources

FAQ

Can I get an EIN without a Social Security number?

Yes. The online tool requires a valid taxpayer identification number, and an applicant with no SSN or ITIN can apply by phone from outside the U.S., or by fax or mail using Form SS-4.

Does an EIN cost anything?

No. The IRS issues an EIN free of charge.

Should I get an EIN before or after forming the LLC?

The IRS says to register the entity with the state first, before applying for the EIN.

What do I do if I need the EIN before the IRS issues it?

The IRS says to write Applied For and the date you applied in the space for the number, and to file the return or make the deposit on time. It says not to show an SSN as an EIN.

This page is general information about how a filing works, taken from the official sources listed above. It is not legal, tax, or financial advice, and it does not recommend any business structure. Confirm current forms, fees, and deadlines on the official source before you file.

Related guides