What is an EIN Number and How to Get One for Your US LLC
What is an EIN?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a nine-digit federal tax identification number issued by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). It functions as the Social Security Number for your business — uniquely identifying your company for tax purposes, banking, and federal filings.
Despite its name, you do not need employees to obtain an EIN. Any LLC, Corporation, or Partnership needs one.
Why Do You Need an EIN?
- Bank Account: US business banks (Mercury, Relay, Chase) require an EIN to open a business account.
- Stripe and Payment Processors: Stripe requires EIN for account verification and tax reporting.
- Tax Filings: Required for all federal tax returns — Form 5472 (foreign-owned single-member LLC), Form 1065 (multi-member LLC), and others.
- Hiring Employees: Mandatory if you employ US workers and process payroll.
- Business Licenses and Permits: Many state and local licenses require EIN.
- Credibility: EIN establishes your company as a legitimate US business entity.
Who Needs an EIN?
Nearly all US business entities require an EIN:
- LLCs (single-member and multi-member)
- Corporations (C-Corp and S-Corp)
- Partnerships
- Non-profit organizations
A sole proprietor with no employees and no special tax circumstances may use their SSN instead — but for foreign entrepreneurs, an EIN is always required since SSNs are unavailable.
How to Apply for an EIN
Before applying: Your LLC must already be formed (Articles of Organization filed and approved by the state). You will also need to designate a "Responsible Party" — the individual who controls the company.
Option 1 — Online (SSN/ITIN holders only): If you have a US SSN or ITIN, apply online at the IRS website. Approval is instant. Available Monday–Friday, 7am–10pm ET.
Option 2 — Fax (foreign applicants without SSN/ITIN): Complete Form SS-4 and fax it to the IRS at +1 (304) 707-9471 (international applicants). Processing time: 2–4 weeks. The EIN confirmation letter (CP575 or 147c) is mailed or faxed back.
Option 3 — Mail: Send completed Form SS-4 to IRS, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999. Processing time: 4–6 weeks.
The EIN application is free. You do not pay the IRS for an EIN — only pay if using a service provider to handle the application.
After Receiving Your EIN
Once you have your EIN confirmation letter (CP575 or 147c):
- Open your US business bank account (Mercury, Relay, or Wise Business)
- Activate your Stripe or PayPal Business account
- File annual tax forms (Form 5472 for foreign-owned single-member LLCs)
- Apply for any required business licenses
Note: Some IRS systems may take up to 2 weeks to fully recognize your EIN after issuance.
EIN vs ITIN vs SSN
- EIN: For businesses. Issued to LLCs, corporations, partnerships.
- SSN (Social Security Number): For US citizens and authorized residents. Used for personal income tax.
- ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number): For individuals who cannot get an SSN but have US tax obligations. Not required for Stripe or bank account — only needed for personal tax filings (Form 1040-NR).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is EIN required for Stripe? Yes. Stripe uses EIN for business identity verification.
How long does EIN take for foreign applicants? Fax method: 2–4 weeks. Mailing method: 4–6 weeks.
Can I get an EIN without an ITIN or SSN? Yes. Foreign applicants without SSN or ITIN use the fax method on Form SS-4.
Is the EIN application free? Yes — the IRS charges nothing. Third-party services charge for handling the paperwork.
Can I apply before my LLC is formed? No. The LLC must exist before you can apply for an EIN.