4 months ago · Updated 3 days ago
Official source: IRS employer identification number guidance provides the primary guidance used in this guide.
Disclosure: the 1 Day EIN section is a paid placement, and the doola links are affiliate links. We earn a commission on doola purchases, at no extra cost to you. Neither changes the IRS steps below, which are free to do yourself.
Getting an EIN for non-US residents is one of the most important steps after forming a US LLC. Without an EIN, you won't be able to open most US business bank accounts, verify your company with Stripe, or meet key IRS filing requirements.
Many international founders assume they need a Social Security Number first. They don't. The IRS allows foreign entrepreneurs to obtain an EIN without an SSN or ITIN through its international application process.
If you're wondering how to get an EIN without an SSN, whether a foreign-owned LLC qualifies, or simply asking can a foreigner get an EIN, the answer is yes. Foreign founders obtain EINs without visiting the United States or becoming US tax residents.
This guide explains the complete process, including Form SS-4, IRS phone and fax applications, processing times, common mistakes, and the fastest way to obtain an EIN for a foreign-owned LLC in 2026.
Quick answer: A non-US resident can get an EIN without an SSN, ITIN, US address, visa, or US citizenship. Most foreign founders receive their EIN the same day through the IRS international phone line or within approximately four business days using the IRS fax method.
Who Needs an EIN as a Non-US Resident?
Most foreign-owned LLCs should obtain an EIN immediately after formation. Even when an EIN is not legally required on day one, getting it early avoids delays when opening bank accounts, setting up payment processors, and meeting federal tax obligations.
- Single-member foreign-owned LLCs filing Form 5472
- Multi-member LLCs filing Form 1065
- Businesses opening a US bank account
- Companies using Stripe, PayPal, or other payment processors
- Amazon FBA and e-commerce sellers
- Freelancers, consultants, agencies, and SaaS founders serving US customers
If you formed a US LLC as a non-resident, obtaining an EIN should usually be your next step. For most international founders, the EIN becomes the key document required for banking, payment processing, and IRS compliance.
- What is an EIN?
- Why non-US residents need an EIN
- Can you get an EIN without an SSN?
- Do you need an ITIN?
- Requirements checklist
- Form SS-4 explained
- How to apply step by step
- Processing times
- Fast paid option: 1 Day EIN
- Is an EIN free?
- Common mistakes foreign founders make
- EIN and business banking
- EIN and Stripe
- EIN and taxes
- doola EIN assistance
- DIY vs using a service
- FAQ
A non-US resident can get an EIN for their US LLC without a Social Security Number, ITIN, or a visit to the United States. The IRS issues EINs to foreign applicants through three methods: phone (same day), fax (approximately 4 business days), or mail (about 4 weeks). The free IRS online application requires an SSN or ITIN and is not available to non-residents.
This guide covers every method, the correct Form SS-4 procedure for non-residents, common mistakes that delay applications, and when a service like doola makes sense instead. The IRS procedures here come from the official Form SS-4 instructions, checked on October 7, 2026.
Quick answer:
- Can non-US residents get an EIN? Yes
- SSN required? No
- ITIN required? No
- LLC must be formed first? Yes (in most cases)
- US address required? No
- Cost? Free from IRS; $50–200 if using a service
- Processing time? 4 business days (fax) / same day (phone) / about 4 weeks (mail)
What is an EIN?
An Employer Identification Number is a nine-digit tax identification number issued by the IRS to identify a business entity for federal tax purposes. The format is XX-XXXXXXX. It's sometimes called a Federal Tax ID Number, Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), or Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Despite the word "employer" in the name, you don't need employees to get an EIN. Single-person LLCs with no employees routinely need EINs for banking, payment processing, and tax compliance purposes.
| Identifier | Issued by | For whom | Purpose | Non-residents need it? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EIN | IRS | Business entities | Federal business tax ID | Yes — for the LLC |
| SSN | Social Security Administration | US citizens + authorized workers | Personal federal tax ID | No (not required for EIN) |
| ITIN | IRS | Non-resident individuals with US tax obligations | Personal tax ID for non-residents | No (not required for EIN) |
An EIN does not create your LLC, authorize you to do business, or serve as a business license. It identifies your LLC in the IRS system for tax reporting. Your LLC is created when the state approves your Articles of Organization — the EIN is a separate, subsequent step.
Why non-US residents need an EIN
Several critical business functions require an EIN before they work. Trying to skip this step creates blockers at every turn.
- Business bank accounts — Mercury, Relay, and every major US bank or fintech requires your EIN before opening a business account. Without an EIN, you cannot open the account. See our guide on business bank account for non-US residents for the full banking setup process.
- Stripe — Stripe requires EIN verification when you add your US LLC as the business entity. Without it, your Stripe account defaults to personal identity verification, which doesn't match your LLC structure.
- Federal tax compliance — your LLC's federal tax returns (Form 1065 for multi-member LLCs) and the mandatory Form 5472 for foreign-owned single-member LLCs require an EIN. You cannot file these returns without one.
- Payroll — if your LLC ever hires US employees or US-based contractors on payroll, an EIN is legally required. Payroll processors will not run without it.
- Amazon seller account — Amazon requires an EIN to open a professional seller account linked to a US LLC entity.
- Business credit — establishing business credit under your LLC (rather than personal credit) requires an EIN. Business credit applications tie to the EIN, not to you personally.
Can you get an EIN without an SSN?
Yes. The IRS explicitly accommodates foreign applicants without an SSN through its phone and fax application methods. Form SS-4 has a field (Line 7b) for the responsible party's SSN or ITIN — foreign applicants who have neither enter "N/A" or "foreign" in that field. The IRS accepts these applications and issues EINs to foreign entities.
What is not available to non-residents without an SSN or ITIN: the IRS online EIN application at irs.gov/EIN. This system requires the responsible party to have a valid SSN or ITIN. Non-residents use the phone or fax method instead.
The IRS international phone line (+1 267-941-1099) is available to applicants outside the US Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM Eastern Time. If you call with a completed Form SS-4 in front of you, an IRS representative will issue your EIN the same day. This is the fastest method — but it requires patience during busy periods. Fax is more reliable for applicants who can't wait on hold.
Do you need an ITIN to get an EIN?
No. An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is not required to get an EIN for your LLC. The EIN is your LLC's identifier. The ITIN would be your personal identifier if you needed to file a US personal tax return. They serve different purposes and are applied for separately.
Where an ITIN becomes relevant later:
- If your LLC earns US-source income that requires you to file a personal Form 1040-NR, you'll need an SSN or ITIN to complete that return. Without one, you cannot file personally — though your LLC's EIN handles the entity-level filings.
- Some providers ask non-US owners for an SSN or ITIN, and published requirements differ, so check the provider's current document list. Mercury and Wise Business do not require one. If you want Relay access, getting an ITIN eventually makes sense. Mercury and Wise Business do not require it.
- Stripe may request ITIN for certain tax withholding forms (W-8BEN) — though EIN typically handles the business verification portion.
Getting an ITIN is a separate, slower process that involves filing Form W-7 with supporting identity documents by mail to the IRS ITIN Operation in Austin, TX. The ITIN application process takes several weeks. It is not a prerequisite for your EIN — don't delay your EIN application while waiting for an ITIN.
Requirements to get an EIN as a non-US resident
Have the following ready before starting any EIN application method.
| Item | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Formed LLC | Required | LLC must be approved before applying — you need the formation date and state |
| LLC legal name | Required | Exactly as it appears on Articles of Organization |
| State of formation | Required | The state where you filed Articles of Organization |
| Responsible party name | Required | Must be an individual person — not the LLC itself |
| Responsible party address | Required | Your personal address outside the US is acceptable |
| Business mailing address | Required | Your RA address or virtual office address in the US |
| Business purpose | Required | Specific description of what the LLC does |
| SSN or ITIN | Optional | Enter "N/A" or "foreign" on Line 7b if you have neither |
| Return fax number | Required for fax | IRS faxes EIN back to this number within 4 business days |
Form SS-4 explained
Form SS-4 — Application for Employer Identification Number — is the IRS document used to apply for an EIN. You download it free from irs.gov, fill it out, and submit by fax, phone, or mail. Do not try to complete it on the spot for the phone application without having it ready first — IRS representatives ask for the information line by line.
Key sections of Form SS-4 for non-residents:
Lines 1–2: Legal name and trade name
Line 1 is the exact legal name of your LLC as it appears on the Articles of Organization. If your LLC is "Smith Global Holdings LLC," write it exactly that way — no abbreviations, no variations. Line 2 is for a DBA name if you use one. Most LLCs leave Line 2 blank.
Lines 4a–4b: Mailing address
This is where the IRS will mail the CP575 EIN confirmation letter. Use your registered agent's address or your US virtual office address. Do not use your personal address outside the US as the mailing address — the CP575 will be mailed here, and international mail delivery from the IRS is unreliable and slow.
Lines 7a–7b: Responsible party
The responsible party is the individual who controls, manages, or directs the LLC and its funds. For a single-member LLC owned by you, that's you. Important: the IRS requires the responsible party to be an individual person, not the LLC itself. Write your name on Line 7a. On Line 7b (SSN/ITIN), if you have neither, write "N/A" or "foreign." The IRS accepts this.
Lines 8a–8c: LLC information
Check the box indicating the entity type is a Limited Liability Company. Line 8b asks for the number of members — enter 1 if you're the sole owner. Line 8c asks how the LLC is classified for tax purposes — single-member LLCs default to disregarded entity, which is what you want for most non-resident founders.
Line 9: Reason for applying
For new LLCs, check "Started a new business." This is the correct selection for a newly formed LLC that has not yet operated.
Line 10: Date business started
Enter the date your Articles of Organization were approved by the state — the date on your formation confirmation. Do not leave this blank.
Line 16: Business activity
Be specific. "Online business" or "consulting" is too vague and may cause delays. Write something like: "SaaS software development and subscription sales" or "Digital marketing consulting services to small businesses." Specific descriptions reduce review delays.
Never list the LLC itself as the responsible party. The IRS will reject or delay applications where Line 7a shows the LLC name instead of an individual's name. This is the most common error on SS-4 applications from non-residents who don't read the instructions.
How to apply for an EIN without an SSN
Three methods work for non-residents. Phone is fastest. Fax is most reliable for those who can receive a fax. Mail is slowest but requires no phone or fax equipment.
Form your LLC first
Your LLC must exist before you can apply for its EIN. File Articles of Organization with the state, wait for approval, and retrieve your formation date from the confirmation document. You need the formation date for Form SS-4 Line 10.
Download and complete Form SS-4
Get the current version from irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-ss-4. Fill in every required field. LLC name must match Articles of Organization exactly. Responsible party must be you as an individual. Line 7b: enter "N/A" if you have no SSN or ITIN. Business mailing address: your registered agent's US address. Include your personal address as the responsible party's address — your non-US address is fine here.
Choose your application method
Phone (fastest — same day): Call +1 (267) 941-1099, Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Have your completed SS-4 ready. An IRS representative will ask for the information line by line and issue your EIN verbally.
Fax (~4 business days): Fax your completed SS-4 to 304-707-9471 (from outside the US) or 855-215-1627 (from within the US). Include your return fax number. The IRS faxes your EIN back to that number. Use an online fax service (eFax, mFax, HelloFax) if you don't have a physical fax machine.
Mail (about 4 weeks): Mail your signed, completed SS-4 to: IRS, Attn: EIN International Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999. Slowest option — only use if phone and fax are unavailable.
Receive your EIN
By phone: you receive your EIN verbally during the call. Write it down on the upper right corner of your Form SS-4 and keep it. By fax: the IRS faxes an EIN assignment notice to your return fax number. By mail: the IRS mails a CP575 notice. Your EIN arrives regardless of method in CP575 format mailed to your business address — expect several weeks for the physical CP575 letter even if you received the number by phone or fax.
Retrieve your CP575 and keep it safe
The CP575 is the official IRS EIN confirmation letter. Banks require it during account opening. If you lose it, you cannot get another one — you must request a 147c letter instead (a verification letter that serves as proof of your EIN). See our guide on the IRS 147C letter for how to request it.
EIN processing times for non-US residents
| Method | Time to receive EIN | Return requirement | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phone (+1 267-941-1099) | Same day (during call) | Must have SS-4 ready; have patience for hold times | Fastest option; works well for most time zones |
| Fax (international fax) | ~4 business days | Must include return fax number on SS-4 | Reliable; no language barrier on phone |
| about 4 weeks | Mail to IRS Cincinnati, OH 45999 | Last resort only; slowest option |
Factors that extend processing time: incomplete Form SS-4 (missing LLC name, formation date, or business description); listing the LLC itself as responsible party; providing an incorrect or missing return fax number; applying during IRS peak periods (January–April). Any error on the form forces the IRS to follow up, which adds weeks to the timeline. Fill the form correctly the first time.
The CP575 confirmation letter arrives by mail to your registered agent's address regardless of which application method you used. This takes several weeks from when your EIN is issued. The letter is the one document you keep permanently — it cannot be reissued. Once your EIN is issued by phone or fax, you can typically begin the bank account application process immediately using that number. Most banks accept the EIN number itself as evidence; the CP575 provides secondary confirmation.
Need a faster done-for-you option? 1 Day EIN
If you would rather not handle the LLC formation and EIN process yourself, 1 Day EIN offers an expedited package designed for non-US founders.
According to 1 Day EIN, its $399 all-in package includes LLC formation, EIN, registered agent service, and a US business address, with state filing fees included.
These figures and service claims are provided by 1 Day EIN. Availability, timing, eligibility, and refund conditions are determined by the provider, so review its current terms before ordering.
The EIN itself is free from the IRS. With a paid provider, you are paying for LLC formation and application handling—not for the EIN number itself.
Sponsored placement: 1 Day EIN paid for placement on this guide. LLCStarters retains editorial control over the wording, evaluation, and placement of this section.
Is an EIN free?
Yes. The IRS does not charge any fee to issue an EIN. Whether you apply by phone, fax, mail, or online, the EIN from the IRS costs nothing.
What costs money:
- Third-party EIN services ($50–200) — these prepare and submit your Form SS-4 on your behalf. You pay for coordination and error-checking, not for the EIN itself.
- Online fax services ($2–15) — if you don't have a physical fax machine, you'll use an online fax service to submit your SS-4 and receive the IRS fax-back. Services like eFax, mFax, and HelloFax charge per-page or monthly fees.
- Doola's EIN service — covered as part of their formation packages. Not a standalone IRS fee, but a service fee for handling the application on your behalf.
The IRS online EIN application at irs.gov/EIN is free and immediate for US-based applicants with SSN/ITIN. Non-residents cannot use this system. If a service tells you it can get you an EIN "faster" through the online system without an SSN — it can't. The IRS system blocks non-SSN/ITIN applicants. Any service claiming otherwise is either incorrect or using a method that creates compliance problems.
DIY EIN vs using a service
| Factor | DIY (IRS fax or phone) | 1 Day EIN | doola | Northwest + EIN service |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free + fax service ($2–15) | $399 all-in formation package | Included in formation package | RA $39 + EIN service $50–150 |
| Form SS-4 preparation | Self-prepared | Handled | Handled | Varies by service |
| EIN processing time | Same day (phone) / ~4 days (fax) | Advertised as 1 business day, Monday–Friday | Same IRS timeline | Same IRS timeline |
| Registered agent | Not included | Included; $50/year renewal | Included with eligible formation plans | Available separately |
| US business address | Not included | Included | Plan-dependent | Not included with basic RA service |
| Application handling | You handle IRS contact and follow-up | Handled by provider | Handled | Varies by service |
| Best for | Founders comfortable handling the IRS process themselves | Non-US founders prioritizing speed and an all-in formation package | Founders wanting broader formation and ongoing compliance support | Founders primarily looking for registered agent service |
Disclosure: 1 Day EIN is a sponsored partner of LLCStarters. Service details and turnaround claims shown above are provided by the respective providers. LLCStarters retains editorial control over this comparison.
Common EIN mistakes foreign founders make
- Applying before forming the LLC. You need your LLC's formation date and state to complete Form SS-4. Apply after your Articles of Organization are approved, not before.
- Listing the LLC as the responsible party. Line 7a must show an individual person's name — yours. The IRS will reject or delay applications where the LLC name appears in the responsible party field. This is explicitly prohibited in the IRS instructions.
- Leaving Line 7b blank instead of "N/A." If you have no SSN or ITIN, write "N/A" or "foreign" — don't leave the field empty. Empty fields suggest incomplete applications.
- Using a vague business description. "Online business" or "consulting" on Line 16 triggers manual review. Write a specific description of what the LLC actually does.
- Not including a return fax number. If you fax without a return fax number, the IRS mails the CP575 instead of faxing your EIN back — adding about 4 weeks to the process.
- Sending duplicate applications. If you don't receive your EIN within the expected timeframe, call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 to check status. Do not re-fax the same application — the IRS processes duplicates as separate applications and may issue you two EINs, creating compliance complications.
- Confusing the EIN with an ITIN. Some non-residents apply for an ITIN thinking it will let them open a bank account or use payment processors under their LLC. ITINs are personal tax identifiers. The LLC's EIN is what banks and Stripe need.
- Applying under the wrong entity type. Line 8a asks you to identify the entity type. Select "Limited Liability Company." Do not select corporation, sole proprietor, or any other type unless that actually describes your structure.
EIN and business banking
Your EIN is the gateway to your US bank account. Every major banking platform for non-residents — Mercury, Relay, Wise Business — requires your EIN as part of the account application. Without it, applications are returned or rejected.
The typical banking document sequence is:
- Form LLC → receive Articles of Organization
- Apply for EIN → receive EIN (4 business days by fax, same day by phone)
- Apply for business bank account using EIN + Articles + operating agreement + passport
- Account approved within 1–5 business days
The EIN is the rate-limiting step in the banking process. Plan your EIN application as soon as your LLC is approved, not after. This directly determines when you can accept payments. For the complete banking setup process including Mercury eligibility, prohibited countries, and common rejection causes, see our business bank account guide for non-US residents. For general banking context, see the business bank account guide.
EIN and Stripe
Stripe requires business verification when you configure your Stripe account under a US LLC entity. During this process, Stripe asks for your EIN and may request the CP575 confirmation letter or 147c letter as supporting documentation. Without an EIN, you cannot complete Stripe's business verification under an LLC — your account defaults to individual status, which mismatches your legal structure.
EIN and LLC taxes
Having an EIN does not change your tax obligations — it just makes it possible to fulfill them. The EIN appears on every federal tax form your LLC files.
For a single-member foreign-owned LLC: the LLC's EIN goes on Form 5472 (mandatory annual filing) and the attached pro forma Form 1120. These filings do not create an additional tax — they inform the IRS of your ownership structure. The $25,000 IRS penalty for missing them applies regardless of whether you have an EIN or not.
For a multi-member LLC with foreign members: the EIN goes on Form 1065 and the Schedule K-1s issued to each member. Multi-member LLCs with foreign members have additional withholding obligations that the EIN is used to track.
The EIN does not affect whether your income is US-taxable — that's determined by where business activity occurs (Effectively Connected Income rules). For the full picture of tax obligations for foreign-owned LLCs, see our LLC taxes guide. The general EIN for LLC guide covers the full EIN process for all LLC types.
doola EIN assistance for non-US residents
The DIY EIN process for non-residents is manageable — it's a form and a fax. But errors on Form SS-4 cause delays measured in weeks, and the IRS does not give clear error messages when something is wrong. For a first-time founder unfamiliar with IRS procedures, a service that handles the SS-4 preparation and submission is a reasonable investment.
Doola includes EIN application as part of its formation packages for non-US residents. It prepares Form SS-4, submits it to the IRS, and tracks the application — all without requiring an SSN. This is part of a broader formation process that includes LLC filing, registered agent, operating agreement, BOI report, and banking setup.
Get your EIN without the IRS fax process.
doola prepares your Form SS-4, submits it to the IRS, and handles follow-up — no SSN required, no fax machine needed. Part of the complete non-resident LLC setup.
Northwest is mainly a formation and registered agent service, so check its current offerings before you assume it handles the EIN. Their registered agent service is excellent at $125/year (first year included with formation), but the EIN process requires separate handling. See the doola vs Northwest comparison for a full breakdown of what each service covers. If you only need an RA and are confident handling the EIN yourself by phone, Northwest at $125/year (after the first year) plus the free IRS phone application is the most cost-effective path.
Most non-US residents can get an EIN in one business day by calling the IRS international line (+1 267-941-1099) with a completed Form SS-4. Fax takes approximately 4 business days if you include a return fax number. The EIN is free from the IRS. The most common causes of delays are listing the LLC as responsible party, vague business descriptions, and missing return fax numbers. Get your EIN the day your LLC is approved — it's the bottleneck before banking, Stripe, and tax compliance all become possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-US resident get an EIN?
Yes. The IRS issues EINs to foreign applicants through phone, fax, and mail. Non-residents call +1 (267) 941-1099 (Monday–Friday, 6am–11pm ET) to receive an EIN the same day, or fax Form SS-4 to 304-707-9471 to receive it within approximately 4 business days. An SSN or ITIN is not required. The free IRS online EIN application is the only method unavailable to non-residents.
Do I need an SSN to get an EIN?
No. Non-residents without an SSN apply by phone or fax. On Form SS-4 Line 7b (SSN/ITIN field), enter "N/A" or "foreign." The IRS accepts these applications and issues EINs. The online EIN application at irs.gov/EIN requires an SSN or ITIN and is not available to non-residents — use phone or fax instead.
Do I need an ITIN to get an EIN?
No. An ITIN is not required to get an EIN for your LLC. The EIN is your LLC's business tax identifier. The ITIN would be your personal tax identifier if you needed to file a US personal tax return (Form 1040-NR). These are separate documents serving different purposes. You can obtain your LLC's EIN without having an ITIN — and the EIN process is faster.
Is an EIN free?
Yes. The IRS does not charge for EIN issuance. Phone, fax, mail, and online applications are all free from the IRS. Third-party services charge $50–200 to prepare and submit your Form SS-4, but you pay for the service, not the EIN. Online fax services charge $2–15 to send and receive faxes if you don't have a physical fax machine.
Can I apply for an EIN online as a non-US resident?
No. The IRS online EIN application requires the responsible party to have a valid SSN or ITIN. Non-residents without either cannot use this system. The IRS phone method (+1 267-941-1099) and fax method are the available alternatives. The phone method is fastest — you receive your EIN during the call. Fax takes approximately 4 business days if you include a return fax number.
Can I get an EIN before opening a bank account?
Yes — and you must. Banks require your EIN before they open a business account. The correct sequence is: form LLC → apply for EIN → open bank account. You cannot reverse this order. Mercury, Relay, Wise Business, and every major banking platform for non-residents requires the EIN as part of the application. Apply for your EIN the day your LLC is approved to minimize the delay before banking.
How long does it take to get an EIN for a non-US resident?
Phone method: same day — you receive the EIN during the call with the IRS international line. Fax method: approximately 4 business days if you include your return fax number. Mail method: about 4 weeks. The phone method is fastest but requires patience during busy IRS periods. The CP575 confirmation letter arrives by mail to your US business address within several weeks regardless of which method you used to receive the EIN number.
Can I get an EIN for a Wyoming LLC as a non-US resident?
Yes. The EIN process is the same for Wyoming, Delaware, New Mexico, or any other formation state. The state where your LLC is formed doesn't affect your EIN application method. You need: the LLC's legal name, formation date, state of organization, your name as responsible party, a US mailing address (your RA's address works), and a description of the business activity.
What is Form SS-4?
Form SS-4 — Application for Employer Identification Number — is the IRS document used to apply for an EIN. It collects your LLC's legal name, entity type, formation date and state, responsible party information, business mailing address, and business activity description. You download it free from irs.gov, complete it, and submit by phone, fax, or mail. Non-residents fill it the same way as US residents, except Line 7b (SSN/ITIN) shows "N/A" if you have neither.
Can my EIN application be rejected?
The IRS rarely outright rejects EIN applications, but common issues cause delays: listing the LLC as responsible party (must be an individual); leaving Line 7b blank instead of "N/A"; mismatched LLC name (must match Articles of Organization exactly); missing or incorrect business description on Line 16; no return fax number (forces mail delivery instead of fax-back). Fix errors before submitting — do not re-fax the same application if you suspect an error. Call 1-800-829-4933 to check status first.
Do I need a US address to get an EIN?
A US mailing address is needed for the CP575 confirmation letter. Your registered agent's address works — it's in your formation state and is a legitimate US street address. Your own personal address outside the US is acceptable as the responsible party's address on Line 4. You do not need to be physically present in the US or have a personal US address.
Does an EIN expire?
No. An EIN is permanent and never expires. Once issued by the IRS, the EIN belongs to your LLC permanently — even if the LLC is eventually dissolved. You cannot cancel an EIN, though you can close the IRS business account associated with it by sending a letter requesting closure. The EIN number itself remains in the IRS system indefinitely.
Can I change EIN information after it's issued?
Some information can be updated by contacting the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933, or by submitting a letter with the requested changes. Changes to the legal name require supporting documentation from the state. You cannot change the EIN number itself or the entity type. For major structural changes (converting from LLC to corporation, for example), a new EIN may be required.
Can I use an EIN for Stripe?
Yes. Stripe requires your EIN to verify your US LLC entity during business account setup. Once verified, Stripe processes payments under your LLC's EIN rather than your personal identity. Without EIN verification, Stripe defaults to individual identity status, which mismatches your LLC structure.
Can doola help with EIN applications for non-residents?
Yes. doola's formation packages include EIN application as part of the service. doola prepares Form SS-4 correctly for non-residents (including the "N/A" handling on Line 7b), submits to the IRS, and handles follow-up — no SSN required. The IRS processing timeline still applies (same day by phone or 4 business days by fax), but doola coordinates the submission and document delivery. See the doola review for full plan details.