📝 Meta Description
Learn why non-U.S. residents are not allowed to apply for an EIN online, what IRS rules say, and how you can legally and efficiently get an EIN with expert help.
🧭 What Is an EIN and Why Is It Needed?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique number issued by the IRS for tax reporting purposes. You will need an EIN in situations such as:
- Opening a U.S. business bank account
- Setting up Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, or other platforms
- Filing U.S. tax forms (e.g., Form 5472, 1099)
- Hiring employees or contractors
- Registering and operating an LLC or Corporation in the U.S.
⚠️ Why Online EIN Application Is Not Allowed for Non-Residents
According to IRS rules, you cannot apply for an EIN online if:
- Your business or legal residence is not within the United States or its territories
- Your responsible party does not have a valid U.S. SSN or ITIN
👉 This means all non-residents must apply via fax or mail — not online.
📊 EIN Application Method Comparison
| Application Method | Who Can Use It | Processing Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | U.S. residents with SSN/ITIN | Immediate | Not available to non-residents |
| Fax | Everyone | 4–5 business days | Most common option for non-residents |
| Everyone | 4–6 weeks | Slow, risk of mailing errors | |
| Phone | International applicants | Immediate | Wait times vary, English required |
📌 Tip: For non-residents, fax is the fastest legal option.
📝 SS-4 Form Pitfalls for Non-Residents
When completing IRS Form SS-4, non-residents often make critical mistakes. Here are key fields to focus on:
| Field | What to Write (as a Non-Resident) |
|---|---|
| 7a / 7b | Responsible party’s name; if no SSN, write “Foreign” |
| 9a | Choose correct entity type (e.g., LLC, Corporation) |
| 10 | Reason for applying (e.g., “Started a new business”) |
❗Any mistake on this form can result in rejection — and the IRS won’t notify you. You’ll just wait endlessly.
🤯 Why DIY EIN Applications Often Fail
Many non-residents believe they can apply themselves and save money. But here’s the truth:
- ❌ One small error leads to rejection — often without notice
- ❌ IRS notices (e.g., CP 575) cannot be emailed — only mailed
- ❌ You must provide a valid U.S. mailing address
- ❌ You must understand U.S. tax classifications
- ❌ You risk non-compliance with BOIR, FATCA, or 5472 rules
✅ How SpeedEIN Helps You Succeed
| Feature | Do-It-Yourself | SpeedEIN |
|---|---|---|
| Non-resident eligibility check | ❌ No help | ✅ Included |
| SS-4 form filling | ❌ Self-guessing | ✅ Done-for-you |
| IRS communication | ❌ Not supported | ✅ We handle it |
| CP 575 support | ❌ No forwarding | ✅ Delivered to your address |
| Multi-language service | ❌ English only | ✅ Supports 15 languages |
With SpeedEIN, you’re not just submitting a form — you’re legally protected.
📬 What About the CP 575 Letter?
The CP 575 is the official IRS confirmation of your EIN. Here’s the catch:
- It is only sent by physical mail
- IRS will not fax or email this document
- If your address is wrong, you may never receive it
- Without it, you can’t finish account setups on Amazon, Stripe, etc.
📦 SpeedEIN helps ensure your CP 575 is correctly delivered.
🚀 Ready to Apply for Your EIN?
As a non-resident, trying to navigate the IRS system alone is like walking blindfolded into a legal maze.
With SpeedEIN, you’ll get:
- Fast EIN turnaround (4–5 business days)
- Guaranteed compliance with U.S. tax law
- Expert support in your language