An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your LLC's federal tax ID. You need one to open a US bank account, work with Stripe, hire employees, or file US taxes. Getting one without a US Social Security Number is straightforward. It just takes longer.
If you have an SSN or ITIN
Apply online at IRS.gov. You get your EIN instantly. Done in 10 minutes.
The fax process, step by step
| Line | What to enter |
|---|---|
| 7a | Your full legal name as the responsible party |
| 7b | "Foreign". Do not leave blank, do not invent a number |
| 8a | Check "Yes" for LLC |
| 9a | Usually "Other" with "Disregarded entity" or "Foreign-owned US DE" written in |
| 10 | Check "Started new business" |
| 18 | "No" if this is the entity's first EIN |
Realistic timelines
| Method | Typical time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online portal | Immediate | Not available to non-residents |
| Fax | 4 to 8 weeks | Recommended. Provide a return fax number |
| 8 to 12 weeks or more | Slowest, and no transmission record | |
| Phone | Not reliable | The international EIN phone line has been inconsistent |
If you don't have an SSN or ITIN (most non-residents)
You cannot use the online IRS form. You must fax or mail IRS Form SS-4.
On line 7b of Form SS-4, write 'Foreign' instead of an SSN.
On line 8a, identify your entity type as LLC.
Sign as the responsible party. The IRS accepts foreign signatures.
Fax to +1-855-641-6935 (international fax line). Mail is slower.
Timeline
Fax: 4-6 weeks for the IRS to process and fax back your EIN letter.
Mail: 8-12 weeks. Avoid if possible.
Phone application is no longer available for non-residents as of 2024.
Common mistakes
Listing an ITIN you do not have on line 7b. Write 'Foreign' instead.
Naming a US-resident 'responsible party' you don't actually use. The IRS verifies this, and the EIN can be revoked.
Faxing an unsigned form. The IRS rejects unsigned SS-4s without notification.
Using an old fax number. Always check the IRS website for the current number.
Letting a service handle it
Bastion Formations files your SS-4 with the IRS as part of every formation package. We follow up if the IRS doesn't respond on time and re-submit if needed. The EIN typically arrives in 4-5 weeks.
LLC cost calculator
Work out what an LLC actually costs to keep alive. Pick a state, a number of years and your Registered Agent price.
| State filing fee, once | $100 |
| Annual report, 4 renewals | $240 |
| Registered Agent, 5 years | $0 |
| Total over 5 years | $340 |
Estimate only. State fees are the published amounts at the time of writing and can change. Taxes, foreign qualification in your operating state and optional services are not included.
BF Solutions LLC, Sheridan, Wyoming. WY Filing ID 2026-001992102.
We file with the Secretary of State and apply for your EIN with the IRS.
Most US LLC filings are completed in a few business days, EIN follows after approval.
Talk to the team that handles your file, before and after formation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get an EIN without an SSN?+
Yes. The IRS accepts EIN applications from non-residents without an SSN or ITIN by fax or mail using Form SS-4. You write 'Foreign' on line 7b.
How long does it take to get an EIN as a non-resident?+
4-6 weeks by fax, 8-12 weeks by mail. The IRS does not currently accept phone applications from non-residents.
Can I open a bank account before I have my EIN?+
No. Mercury, Relay, Wise and other US banks all require your EIN to open the account.
Do I need an ITIN?+
Usually not, just to operate an LLC. You only need an ITIN if you'll personally file a US tax return as an individual (Form 1040-NR). The EIN is for the company.
Open your US LLC the easy way
Formation, EIN and Registered Agent in one fixed-price package. Real humans on WhatsApp when you need help.
Bastion Formations is a company formation agent that files LLCs and corporations in all 50 US states and incorporates companies in the UAE, UK, Hong Kong, Singapore, Canada, Thailand and Indonesia. Our team files with the Secretary of State directly, applies for EINs with the IRS and supports founders through bank account opening. This article reflects fees and filing rules we work with day to day.
- Registered entity
- BF Solutions LLC
30 N Gould St Ste R, Sheridan, WY 82801, USA
WY Filing ID 2026-001992102 - UAE office
- Online Solutions LLC, Licence 2221203
Sharjah Free Zone, United Arab Emirates
Fees checked and article last updated on August 14, 2026. State fees can change, so confirm before you file.