Description: This comprehensive guide explains how non-US residents can apply for an EIN for a single-member LLC. Learn how to correctly fill out IRS Form SS-4, why CP 575 is important, how to avoid common mistakes, and why SpeedEIN is your best solution. Please note: SpeedEIN does not provide a US address and does not forward CP 575. Clients must prepare their own valid US mailing address.
1. What Is a Single-Member LLC and Why Does It Need an EIN?
A Single-Member LLC (SMLLC) is a limited liability company with one owner. Even if it has no employees or operations in the U.S., the IRS requires an EIN for key functions such as:
- Opening a U.S. bank account
- Registering on Stripe, Amazon, PayPal
- Filing IRS forms (e.g., 5472, W-8BEN-E)
- Proving the legitimacy of the LLC
- Filing informational tax returns
🛑 Even if you’re a non-resident with no U.S. presence, an EIN is essential once your LLC is registered.
2. EIN Application Options for Foreign Owners
| Method | Available to Non-US Residents? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Application (irs.gov) | ❌ Not Available | Requires SSN/ITIN – only for U.S. residents |
| Phone Application | ❌ Discontinued | IRS no longer allows EIN by phone |
| Faxed or Mailed Form SS-4 | ✅ Yes | Only valid option as of 2025 |
✅ Foreign owners must apply by faxing or mailing a properly completed Form SS-4.
3. How to Fill Out Form SS-4 for a Single-Member LLC (Key Fields)
| Field | What to Enter | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Full LLC Name | Exactly as registered |
| 4a/4b | U.S. Mailing Address | Must be a reliable address to receive CP 575 |
| 7a/7b | Your Name + “Foreign owner – no SSN” | Avoids IRS disqualification |
| 9a | Check “LLC” and enter “1” | Indicates single-member LLC |
| 10 | “New LLC in [State]” | Clarifies LLC type |
| 18 | Usually “NO” | No employees needed for most LLCs |
📌 Incorrect entries will delay or reject your EIN request.
4. What Is CP 575 and Why Is It Crucial?
The CP 575 is the official EIN confirmation letter sent by the IRS only by mail to the U.S. address listed on your SS-4 form.
| Issue | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Invalid or fake address | EIN approval letter never arrives |
| Using unauthorized third-party address | Mail may be rejected |
| No CP 575 | Cannot open a U.S. bank account or pass verification on Stripe, Amazon, etc. |
⚠️ SpeedEIN does NOT provide a U.S. address and does NOT scan or forward CP 575. You must use your own reliable U.S. mailing address.
5. Common Mistakes by Foreign Applicants
| Mistake | Risk | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Filling out SS-4 incorrectly | High | EIN request rejected or delayed |
| Omitting “Foreign Owner – no SSN” | Medium | IRS may classify you as ineligible |
| Invalid address | High | CP 575 is lost or undeliverable |
| Missing signature or unclear fax | Medium | IRS won’t process your application |
| Using fake SSNs or illegal services | Critical | Legal penalties, EIN revocation, blacklisting |
🚫 Don’t risk your business using non-compliant services or fake details.
6. Self-Application vs SpeedEIN Service (Comparison Table)
| Feature | Self-Application | SpeedEIN |
|---|---|---|
| SS-4 Accuracy | ❌ Uncertain | ✅ Reviewed by experts |
| Application Tracking | ❌ None | ✅ End-to-end tracking |
| Address Validation | ❌ Not provided | ✅ Guidance included |
| Success Rate | ❌ Frequently rejected | ✅ Over 95% success rate |
| U.S. Address Provided | ❌ No | ❌ No (You must provide one) |
| CP 575 Handling | ❌ Lost risk | ❌ IRS mails it directly to your address |
7. Why Choose SpeedEIN?
✅ Designed for non-U.S. residents
✅ Human-reviewed SS-4 forms
✅ Multilingual customer support
✅ Fast, efficient process
✅ Decades of experience with IRS systems
✅ Transparent – no hidden upsells or fake addresses
SpeedEIN helps non-resident LLC owners apply for EIN the right way the first time.
8. Final Advice for Foreign LLC Owners
If you’re a non-U.S. resident forming a single-member LLC, the EIN is not optional—and the process is more complex than it looks.
Even minor issues like an invalid address or incomplete form can cause:
- Mail delivery failure
- IRS rejection
- Banking delays
- Tax reporting problems
💡 SpeedEIN helps you apply confidently and avoid legal, financial, or operational setbacks.
📌 Remember: You must provide a valid U.S. address. SpeedEIN does not offer one or forward the CP 575. Be prepared!