What is the EIN? Definition and concept
The EIN (Employer Identification Number), also known as the Federal Tax ID Number or Tax ID, is the tax identification number that the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) assigns to companies in the United States. It is the American equivalent of the CUIT in Argentina, the RFC in Mexico, or the CIF/NIF in Spain.
The EIN format is always 9 digits with this pattern: XX-XXXXXXX (for example, 82-1234567). Each LLC receives a unique and unrepeatable EIN that identifies it to the US tax and banking system for life.
The EIN belongs to the company (the LLC), not the owner. If you have multiple LLCs, each one has its own EIN. The owner can have no SSN or ITIN and still obtain the EIN for his LLC.
The name "Employer Identification Number" can be confusing: you don't need to have employees to get it. Any LLC, even a single member with no employees, needs and can obtain the EIN.
What do you need the EIN for? Essential uses
Bank account in the USA
Mercury, Relay, Lili and virtually all banks require the EIN to open a business account.
Stripe and PayPal Business
To activate a Stripe or PayPal Business account in the USA under the name of your LLC, the EIN is required.
Contracts and invoices
Corporate clients in the USA need your EIN to issue Form 1099 and comply with their tax obligations.
Returns to the IRS
Form 5472, Form 1065 (partnerships), and other IRS filings require the LLC's EIN.
Amazon Seller Central
To sell on Amazon USA as a professional seller, you need the EIN of your American LLC.
Suppliers and wholesalers
Many wholesale suppliers in the USA require the EIN to issue resale certificates.
How to obtain the EIN: options for non-residents
The EIN is requested directly from the IRS using Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number). The process varies depending on whether or not you have SSN (Social Security Number).
Option 1: Online (only for residents with SSN)
The IRS online portal (irs.gov) allows you to obtain the EIN immediately. However, this option is available only for those with an SSN or ITIN. If you are Latin American or European without SSN, you cannot use this portal.
Option 2: By fax (for non-residents)
Nonresidents without SSN can fax the completed Form SS-4 to the IRS. Processing time is 4 to 6 weeks. The EIN is faxed back to the applicant. This is the most common route for Start Companies clients.
Option 3: By postal mail
It is also possible to send Form SS-4 by postal mail. However, it can take between 6 and 12 weeks, so we do not recommend it.
Option 4: By phone (international call)
Nonresidents can call the IRS directly at +1 (267) 941-1099 (international line) Monday through Friday, 6am–11pm EST. An IRS agent can assign the EIN in the same call if all the information is correct. Requires fluent English speaking.
The EIN is completely free if requested directly from the IRS. If you pay a service like Start Companies to manage it, the charge is for the processing service, not for the EIN itself. Be wary of those who charge "IRS fees" for the EIN: they don't exist.
Step-by-step process: how Start Companies obtains your EIN
- You provide us with your information: full name, address, LLC information (name, state, type of entity) and copy of passport.
- We complete Form SS-4: we fill out the form with the correct information in the format that the IRS requires for non-residents.
- We send the form to the IRS: by fax to the IRS international line. We save shipping confirmation.
- We monitor: we verify the status of the process periodically.
- We receive the EIN: The IRS returns the EIN by fax. We deliver it to you along with the official confirmation letter (CP 575 or equivalent).
- Validation: We verify that the EIN is correct and active in IRS systems.
The estimated time for this process is 4 to 6 weeks from the submission of the form. In periods of high demand (January–April) it can be extended up to 8 weeks.
Common problems when obtaining the EIN for foreigners
Error in responsible party name
The IRS requires that the "responsible party" of the LLC be the beneficial owner. If the name on the Form SS-4 does not exactly match the name on the passport, the IRS may reject or delay the process.
Incorrect or foreign address
Form SS-4 can accept a foreign address, but it must be correctly formatted. An incomplete address or one with special characters can cause problems.
LLC not active at the time of application
The EIN is requested once the LLC is formally approved by the state. Applying for the EIN before the LLC is active can lead to inconsistencies.
Outdated IRS Fax Numbers
The IRS periodically changes its fax numbers. Using an outdated number means that the form reaches the wrong number and the process is lost.
There are services on the internet that charge between $200 and $500 USD to "manage the EIN urgently" promising to obtain it in 24 hours for non-residents. This is impossible: the IRS does not have a 24-hour "rush" process for non-residents. Start Companies charges a transparent fee for real management service, with real deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about the EIN
Does the EIN expire or expire?
No. Once assigned, the EIN is permanent and does not expire. Even if the LLC is dissolved and then reactivated under the same name, the original EIN can be reactivated.
Can I change my LLC's EIN?
In most cases, no. The EIN is linked to the entity. If you make minor changes (name change, address change), the EIN stays the same. Only in exceptional cases (change of fundamental legal structure) may it be necessary to obtain a new EIN.
Can I use my LLC's EIN in another country?
The EIN is a US tax number. However, in many countries you can mention it in international contracts as the tax identification number of the American company. Each country has its own rules on foreign documentation.
What do I do if I lose my EIN?
You can call the IRS Business Tax Line at (800) 829-4933 to retrieve your EIN. If you have the original letter from the IRS (CP 575), the EIN is printed on it.
Do I need a separate EIN for each activity of my LLC?
No. An LLC has a single EIN regardless of how many lines of business it has. If you need to legally separate activities, the solution is to create a separate LLC with its own EIN.
Start today
Do you want to open your LLC without complications?
Our team of international accountants and tax experts accompanies you throughout the process. LLC activates in 7 business days.
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Written by
Ignacio Navarro
Ignacio Navarro is a Certified Public Accountant, graduated in 2020 from the National University of Tucumán. Founder of Start Companies since 2023, he advises clients worldwide on forming LLCs in the United States and on proper tax filing. His expertise combines legal, tax, and practical knowledge, offering a comprehensive service that spans from company formation to bank account setup and sales platform integration.
