The CP575 is the IRS’s official EIN confirmation letter, often required for U.S. bank accounts, Amazon, and Stripe verification. Many foreign applicants never receive it due to address errors or miscommunication. This guide explains how to confirm if the IRS sent it, how to request a replacement (Form 147C), and how SpeedEIN helps non-U.S. residents avoid common CP575 issues.
1. What Is the CP575 Letter and Why Is It Important?
The CP575 is an official letter issued by the IRS after successfully approving your EIN (Employer Identification Number). It includes:
- Your legal entity name (as entered on Form SS-4)
- The 9-digit EIN
- The date the EIN was assigned
- Your federal tax classification
This letter is commonly required for:
- Opening U.S. bank accounts
- Registering as an Amazon or Stripe seller
- Verifying business identity on PayPal, Shopify, and more
2. Common CP575 Issues Faced by Non-U.S. Residents
| Issue | Cause | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Never received CP575 | Invalid or undeliverable address | Cannot verify EIN with banks or platforms |
| Used PO Box or virtual mailbox | IRS will not deliver to such addresses | Letter returned with no notice |
| Someone else received it but didn’t forward it | No tracking or notification | IRS considers it delivered |
| Letter lost after delivery | Misplaced or discarded | Requires a new request to IRS |
3. How to Confirm Whether CP575 Was Sent
In most cases, the IRS sends the CP575 letter by mail within 10–15 business days after assigning your EIN. If you applied through SpeedEIN, we will notify you once the EIN is assigned, but CP575 is mailed directly from the IRS to the address you provided.
Important: The IRS does not email or fax CP575 letters. They are only sent via physical mail and cannot be downloaded.
4. What to Do If You Never Received CP575
You can request a replacement EIN confirmation known as Form 147C. This letter contains the same EIN details and is accepted by most banks and platforms as a substitute for CP575.
How to request it:
- Call the IRS at +1-267-941-1099 (for international users)
- Tell the agent you need a “147C letter”
- Provide your EIN, entity name, and responsible party information
- Request the letter via fax or mail (IRS does not email these)
5. How SpeedEIN Helps You Avoid CP575 Problems
- We help ensure your SS-4 form has a valid and IRS-accepted U.S. mailing address
- We notify you promptly when your EIN is issued
- We advise on proper address formatting to avoid delivery issues
- While we do not receive or forward IRS mail, we assist clients in understanding how to request Form 147C if needed
6. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use Form 147C instead of CP575?
A: Yes, most banks and platforms accept Form 147C as valid EIN proof. - Q: Does SpeedEIN send me the CP575 letter?
A: No. CP575 is sent directly from the IRS. SpeedEIN does not forward, scan, or hold IRS mail. - Q: What if I used a virtual mailbox?
A: The IRS may reject such addresses. If so, you must call and request a 147C letter.
7. Final Advice: Don’t Assume You’re Done Until You Get the Letter
Without the CP575 or Form 147C, your EIN might be technically valid, but practically useless for banking or platform onboarding. Always confirm whether you’ve received this letter and store it safely.