Yes, you can complete an EIN application without an SSN — even as a foreigner. Learn how to apply for an EIN without SSN or ITIN, avoid IRS rejection, and receive your CP575. SpeedEIN helps non-US residents get EIN in 10 days — 100% compliant.
EIN Application Without SSN: The Truth Foreign Business Owners Need to Know
You’ve formed a US LLC. You’re ready to open a bank account, accept payments, and grow your business.
But you don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN) — and you’re wondering:
“Can I still apply for an EIN?”
✅ Yes — you absolutely can.
And you don’t need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) either.
But there’s a catch: the process is not straightforward, and most “EIN services” give misleading advice — or worse, break IRS rules.
This guide reveals how to legally complete an EIN application without SSN, avoid rejection, and stay fully compliant with IRS regulations.
🔍 Can Foreigners Apply for an EIN Without SSN?
Yes. According to the IRS (Publication 1635), non-US residents can apply for an EIN even without an SSN or ITIN.
📌 Key Rule:
The Responsible Party on Form SS-4 must be a real person (e.g., the LLC owner or CEO), but they do not need a US tax ID.
You can — and should — leave Field 8 (SSN/ITIN) blank on the SS-4 form.
👉 But you must add a note:
“Foreign person – no SSN or ITIN”
This is fully accepted by the IRS — as long as all other information is accurate.
🚫 Why Most “EIN Services” Get This Wrong
Many EIN providers claim they can “help you get an EIN instantly.” But here’s what they don’t tell you:
- ❌ They list themselves as the Responsible Party — violating IRS rules
- ❌ They use fake SSNs or ITINs — which can lead to EIN revocation
- ❌ They hide your CP575 letter — so you can’t prove your EIN
⚠️ IRS Warning: If false information is discovered, your EIN may be canceled, and you could face penalties or audits.
✅ How to Apply for an EIN Without SSN: Step-by-Step
Follow this IRS-compliant process to apply for an EIN without an SSN:
Step 1: Identify the Responsible Party
The Responsible Party is the individual who:
- Controls, manages, or directs the entity
- Has authority over the LLC’s funds and assets
- Is typically the owner, CEO, or managing member
📌 Important: This must be a real person — not a company, agent, or law firm.
You do not need this person to have an SSN or ITIN.
Step 2: Complete Form SS-4 (Correctly)
Download IRS Form SS-4 and fill it out carefully. Here’s how to handle key fields:
| Field | What to Enter | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Legal Name | Exact LLC name from state filing | Must match — no typos |
| 5a. Business Location | Physical address or registered agent | IRS may verify |
| 5b. Mailing Address | US address where CP575 will be sent | Must be deliverable (no PO Box) |
| 7. Responsible Party | Full name of individual owner/controller | Cannot be a company |
| 8. SSN/ITIN | Leave blank + add note: “Foreign person – no SSN or ITIN” | Required for non-residents |
| 9. Date Business Started | Use MM/DD/YYYY format (e.g., 01/15/2025) | Format errors cause delays |
| 17. Signature | Handwritten signature of Responsible Party | Digital signatures not accepted |
📌 Pro Tip: Never let a third party sign as the Responsible Party — this is fraud.
**Step 3: Submit Your EIN Application
Since you can’t apply online, choose one of these IRS-approved methods:
| Method | How to Apply | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| By Fax | Fax SS-4 to IRS International Unit | 4–6 weeks |
| By Mail | Send to IRS in Atlanta or Cincinnati | 6–8 weeks |
| By Phone | Call IRS at 267-941-1099 (only with US number) | 4+ weeks |
📬 Best Option: Fax submission is faster and provides proof of delivery.
Step 4: Receive Your CP575 Letter
After approval, the IRS mails the CP575 to the mailing address on your SS-4.
This is your official EIN confirmation — banks, Stripe, and PayPal will require it.
⚠️ Critical: If your mailing address is invalid or hidden, you won’t get the CP575 — and your business setup will stall.
🛑 5 Mistakes to Avoid in Your EIN Application Without SSN
- ❌ Mistake: Leaving Field 8 Blank Without Explanation
→ Fix: Always add: “Foreign person – no SSN or ITIN” - ❌ Mistake: Listing a Company as Responsible Party
→ Fix: Must be a real individual — not your agent or law firm - ❌ Mistake: Using a PO Box as Mailing Address
→ Fix: Use a physical US address (friend, family, or verified virtual office) - ❌ Mistake: No Handwritten Signature
→ Fix: The Responsible Party must sign in ink - ❌ Mistake: Wrong Business Start Date Format
→ Fix: Use MM/DD/YYYY (e.g., 03/01/2025)
🚀 SpeedEIN: Compliant EIN Application Without SSN
We specialize in helping foreign entrepreneurs apply for an EIN — without SSN, without risk, without delays.
✅ Our Process:
- Accurately complete your SS-4 form — all fields, no errors
- Verify your Responsible Party and US mailing address
- Submit via fax for faster processing
- Guide you to receive your CP575 safely
- Provide email support — no bots, no wait times
✅ Our Guarantee:
- ⏱️ EIN in 10 business days
- 📬 CP575 guidance within 20 business days
- 🔐 100% IRS compliant — you are the Responsible Party
- 📩 No hidden fees, no document retention
📞 Apply for Your EIN Without SSN — the Right Way
Don’t risk rejection, delays, or IRS penalties. Let SpeedEIN handle your EIN application — so you can focus on building your US business.
📌 You Provide:
- LLC formation documents (Articles of Organization)
- Responsible Party’s passport copy
- Valid US mailing address
📩 Start Your EIN Application Today: Visit SpeedEIN.com
📘 Official IRS Resources: