How to Get an EIN Without SSN?

If you are looking forward to setting up your business or hiring employees but do not have an SSN, there is no need to get worried. You may still get an EIN even with no SSN. In this article, we’ll guide you step by step on how to get the EIN without having an SSN. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

What Is an EIN?

Let’s define what an EIN is. An Employer Identification Number, also known as EIN, is a unique nine-digit number that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) assigns to businesses. It is like a Social Security Number but for your business.

If you’re thinking of hiring employees, opening a business bank account, filing tax returns, or even applying for business licenses and permits, you’ll need an EIN.

In a nutshell, an EIN will make it easier for you to operate a business in the United States. However, sometimes you may not have an SSN. Even so, is it possible to get an EIN without an SSN?

Can You Get an EIN Without an SSN?

Yes, this is possible while having no SSN. The IRS does not bar non-U.S. residents and non-citizens from obtaining an EIN if they don’t have a Social Security Number. It’s essentially the same application but a bit different. You simply make use of an SSN, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or, indeed, apply without one. Below, we will explain both options.

Why Might I Not Have an SSN?

There are many reasons a person may not have an SSN. For example:

If you are not an American citizen or resident and were not assigned an SSN.
You are an international entrepreneur interested in operating a business in the United States, but you don’t reside in the United States.
You are a nonresident alien and are not eligible for an SSN.

If you fall under one of these, read ahead on how to get an EIN without an SSN.

Steps to Get an EIN Without an SSN

Determine If You Need an EIN

Before going ahead, confirm that you actually need to obtain an EIN. You will need an EIN if:

You have employees (or will within the next month).
You’re operating your business as a corporation or partnership.
If you file any of these tax forms: Employment, Excise, or Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.

You don’t fit any of these, and you may not need an EIN yet. But if you do plan to expand your business someday, you should get an EIN as early in the game as possible.

Obtain an ITIN (If You Want)

While it is possible to obtain an EIN without an SSN or ITIN, in the event you have an ITIN, then the process will be easier. An ITIN stands for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number and is a tax processing number issued by the IRS for any individual who does not qualify for a Social Security Number but is needed to have a valid SSN, so as to enable that individual to file taxes.

If you do have your foreign national status without any SSN, first applying for an ITIN would help. Don’t worry if you do not have an ITIN—you can still apply for an EIN.

Fill IRS Form SS-4

Now, it’s time to fill out Form SS-4. This is the IRS form you will use to apply for an EIN. You can download it from the IRS website or obtain a paper copy. This is how you do it:

Line 7b Requests for an SSN or ITIN. If you do not have one, simply check the “Foreign” box.
Complete any additional boxes that are required on the form with details like business name, street address and type. Take care to proofread your work thoroughly as errors can delay acceptance.

Mail the Form to the IRS

Once you have completed Form SS-4, you should transmit it to the IRS. You can do this in a few different ways:

Fax: This is usually the quickest method. Fax your completed form to the IRS at 855-641-6935 if you do not have a Social Security Number.
Mail: You may also mail the form to the IRS. A bit longer, but if this is your preferred method, mail it to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
There is also an online version, but you will need to have an SSN or ITIN, so this may not be an option for you either.

Await Your EIN

The IRS will also share with you an EIN after processing your application. If you faxed, you will hear of your EIN between 4 and 5 business days. If by post is your method of application, it can take up to a month for the EIN to be delivered to you.

Pro Tip: If time is critical, you can fax your application form, so you will get your EIN sooner.

FAQs

Q: How do I get an EIN without an SSN online?

A: No. The online application for an EIN by the IRS requires that you provide an SSN or an ITIN. Nonresidents who do not have an SSN or an ITIN must apply by fax or by mail.

Q: Is it free to apply for an EIN?

A: Yes. Application for an EIN is free. Note that websites that you may be charged for the application are not affiliated with the IRS.

Q: Do I need an ITIN to get an EIN?

A: No, but it does make the whole process much easier. If you don’t have an ITIN, just fill in the SSN/ITIN field on the SS-4 form with “Foreign”.

Q: How long does it take to get an EIN via fax?

A: You should receive your EIN within 4-5 business days if you obtain an EIN by fax.

Conclusion

It appears that initially getting an EIN without having an SSN may be slightly challenging. But trust me; it is entirely possible! So, whether you are a foreign entrepreneur, a non-resident alien, or you simply do not have an SSN, you can still obtain the EIN needed to open or manage a business in the United States.

Just make sure you:

Fill out the SS-4 form meticulously.
Submit it through fax or mail.
Wait as you receive your EIN.

So now that you have your EIN, you are all set to start really putting together the pieces of your company. Best of luck to you in all this. If you still have questions on other matters, please leave those in the comments below.

For further assistance with EIN applications, check out our EIN page. Also, you can check for more information on the IRS.

Want to know more about the process? Throw your questions in the comments below!