Meta Description: EIN application looks easy — just one form, right? But for non-U.S. residents, it’s a legal minefield. From SS-4 errors to shady agents, here’s why most people fail to get their EIN properly and how to avoid disaster.
🧠 The Biggest Mistake? Thinking It’s “Just a Simple Form”
You may think:
“I found a template. I’ll fill it out and fax it.”
But the truth is:
- 📉 IRS ignores incorrect or incomplete applications
- ❌ You may never get a response — and you won’t know why
- ⚠️ One wrong field can invalidate the whole process
🧾 EIN vs. CP 575 — They’re NOT the Same
- ✔️ EIN: 9-digit tax ID (example: 12-3456789)
- ❗ CP 575: The official confirmation letter from the IRS
- ❌ Many cheap services only give you the EIN number, not the actual proof
➡️ Without CP 575, you may not be able to open a U.S. bank account or verify your EIN with platforms like Stripe or Amazon.
⚠️ The Most Dangerous Fields in Form SS-4
| Field | Common Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| 7a | Third-party listed as Responsible Party | IRS rejection |
| 7b | “None” or fake TIN | IRS ignores your request |
| 9a | Wrong entity type (LLC vs Corp) | Incorrect tax classification |
| 10 | Vague purpose like “Open bank account” | Considered invalid |
| 17 | Generic activity like “Sales” or “Service” | Considered insufficient |
🧠 The SS-4 form contains 40+ fields. One error can stop everything.
📬 Risky Addresses = Lost EINs
Some “services” say:
“Use our U.S. address to get faster mail.”
But the IRS:
- Matches name + address
- Flags reused or suspicious addresses
- Sends CP 575 to that address — and you may never get it
💣 The Worst Case: You Don’t Even Own Your EIN
- Agents use their identity, SSN, or address
- Your EIN is linked to someone else
- Stripe, Amazon, IRS or your bank can block you anytime
🛑 A bad application can lead to EIN revocation, audit risk, or permanent rejection.
✅ Solution: SpeedEIN = Safe, Fast, Legal
SpeedEIN helps non-U.S. residents:
- ✅ Fill out SS-4 properly
- ✅ Use correct Responsible Party info
- ✅ Fax directly to IRS
- ✅ Receive official CP 575 confirmation
- ✅ Get EIN in 4–5 business days
👉 Start now: www.speedein.com