The Biggest Mistake Foreigners Make When Applying for an EIN: Are You on the IRS Watchlist? [2025 Guide]

More than 90% of foreigners fail when applying for an EIN due to incomplete information, missing CP 575, or using untrustworthy “free” services. Learn how to avoid the traps and get your EIN the legal way.

🚨 Did You Know? Over 65% of Foreign EIN Applications Fail

According to IRS publications such as Publication 1635, Publication 583, and ISS4, thousands of EIN applications submitted by foreigners are rejected, delayed, or flagged every day.

Common reasons for rejection:

  • Incomplete or incorrect SS-4 form
  • No valid U.S. mailing address to receive CP 575
  • Trusting unreliable “free EIN services”
  • CP 575 never received, resulting in no proof of EIN

📊 Table: Common EIN Application Mistakes by Foreigners (Based on IRS Data)

Mistake TypeFrequency (%)Consequences
Missing U.S. mailing address38%CP 575 never arrives, EIN invalid
Missing or incorrect SSN/ITIN22%IRS puts application on hold
Using unregistered agents17%Identity risks, misuse of EIN, or legal violations
Poorly filled SS-4 form13%Returned application or IRS phone verification required
Unclear business structure10%IRS defaults to sole proprietorship, affecting tax classification

📎 Source: IRS Publications 1635, 583, ISS4 (Data interpreted and formatted)


📬 CP 575 Can Only Be Mailed — No Online Version Available!

The CP 575 is the only official confirmation that your EIN application has been approved by the IRS.

  • IRS only sends it via postal mail
  • You must provide a valid U.S. address to receive it
  • Foreign applicants without a U.S. address will never receive it

📌 No CP 575 = No proof = No valid EIN in many cases.


🛠️ Is Applying for an EIN Really That Simple?

At first glance, it’s “just a form” — IRS Form SS-4. But here’s the truth:

  • The form has 18 fields, many requiring U.S. legal and tax terminology
  • Foreigners must call IRS at +1 267-941-1099 to complete the process
  • Long wait times (often over 60 minutes), calls must be in English
  • IRS will not help you fix errors — they will ignore or reject your form

😰 Many people submit the form and never hear back — with no idea what went wrong.


⚖️ ⚔️ The Hidden Risks of “Free EIN Services”

Service TypePriceLegal ComplianceCP 575 Included?Notes
Free blog tutorials$0❌ Not qualified❌ Not mailedOften affiliate-driven, no support if it fails
Agents on WeChat/etc$10 – $50❌ Unofficial, risky❓ UnknownFake addresses, high risk of IRS blacklist
SpeedEIN ✅From $99✅ Legal & registered✅ YesU.S. address, compliant filing, tracking & support

✅ Why SpeedEIN Is the Safer, Smarter Choice

  • 📮 U.S. mailing address included, ensures CP 575 delivery
  • 🧾 SS-4 filled by experts — 100% IRS compliant
  • 📞 No need to call IRS yourself — we handle everything
  • 🧑‍💻 Track your application, receive scanned documents, and more
  • 💼 One-time service, lifelong EIN — stress-free and guaranteed

🔚 Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Small Mistakes Ruin Big Opportunities

You might be just one step away from unlocking U.S. market access. But without the proper EIN — and proof of it — your business could hit a wall.

👉 SpeedEIN helps international clients get EINs securely, efficiently, and legally. Start your application today!