How to Get EIN Number for LLC
(Complete Guide for US & Non-US Residents)

Introduction

If you’re starting a business in the United States, one of the first things you’ll need to understand is how to get an EIN number. Whether you are forming an LLC, opening a business bank account, or setting up payment gateways, an EIN is an essential requirement.

Many business owners often ask, what is an EIN number and why is it important? In simple terms, an EIN (Employer Identification Number) is used by the IRS to identify your business for tax and financial purposes.

In this guide, we will explain everything step by step — from what an EIN is, to how to apply for an EIN number, including options for both US and non-US residents.

2. What is an EIN Number?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business entity. The EIN is formatted as XX-XXXXXXX and works like a tax ID number for your business.

Just like a Social Security Number (SSN) identifies an individual, an EIN number identifies your business with the IRS.

An EIN number is:

• Issued to one business only
• Permanent (it does not expire)
• Used for tax reporting and compliance

The IRS uses the EIN to track your business tax filings, monitor tax obligations, and manage financial activities related to your company.

In simple terms, an EIN number is the identity of your business in the US tax system. It helps separate your personal and business finances, making it easier to manage taxes, banking, and compliance.

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3. Why EIN is Important

When you register your entity in the US, getting an EIN number for LLC or corporation is not just a step — it is essential to run your business smoothly.

An EIN number works as your business identification number. The IRS uses it to track your business tax returns, while banks and other institutions use it to identify your business for financial transactions.

If you are planning to:

• Open a business bank account
• Register with payment gateways like Stripe or PayPal
• Apply for a business loan

4.What Are Other Names of EIN Number (EIN Synonyms)?

When you open a bank account or register on different platforms, you may see different names used for the EIN number, which can be confusing.

Here are the common terms:

• EIN Number
• FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number)
• Tax ID
• Federal Tax ID Number
• FTIN (Federal Tax Identification Number)

All of these refer to the same thing — your EIN number for business issued by the IRS.

5. How to Apply for EIN Number (U.S. Citizens / Residents)

How to Get an EIN Number?

If you are wondering how to get an EIN number, the process is simple for U.S. citizens and residents.

An EIN number is required for most types of businesses, including:

• Sole proprietorships (with employees)
• Partnerships
• Corporations
• Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
• Nonprofit organizations

The IRS allows you to apply for an EIN number in three ways:

• Online (fastest method)
• By mail
• By fax

EIN Number for U.S. Citizens / Residents

If you are a U.S. citizen or resident and have a Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN, the easiest way to apply for an EIN number online is through the IRS website.

This is the fastest method to get an EIN number, and the process usually takes around 10 minutes.

Once you complete the EIN application online, you can:

• Or receive it by mail, depending on your selection
• Or receive it by mail, depending on your selection

Alternative Ways to Apply for EIN

If you face any issue with the online application, you can still apply for EIN using fax or mail, but these methods take more time compared to the online process.

You can also contact the IRS directly for assistance:

• IRS Business Line: 800-829-4933
• Timing: Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Important Note

• You can get only one EIN per day per SSN or ITIN
• You can get only one EIN per day per SSN or ITIN

Apply for EIN Number for Non-US Residents

If you are a non-US resident and do not have an SSN or ITIN, you can still get an EIN number for your business. However, you cannot use the IRS online application system.

How to Get EIN Number as a Non-US Resident

To apply for an EIN number, you need to complete Form SS-4 (EIN application form). Once the form is completed, you can submit it to the IRS through:

• Mail (slower option)
• Fax (recommended method)

Fax Number:
1-855-641-6935

Mail Address:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation Cincinnati, Ohio 45999

After submission, the IRS will process your request and issue your EIN confirmation letter (CP 575).

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6: What Documents or Information Are Required for EIN Number?

To apply for an EIN number, you need to provide some basic business and personal information in the EIN application (Form SS-4).

Here are the typical details required:

• LLC legal name
• Business address
• Responsible party information (owner or manager)
• LLC formation date
• Type of business activity

Make sure all information is accurate while filling out the EIN application, as incorrect details can delay the process.

7. How Much Does It Cost to Get an EIN Number?

One of the most common questions is whether there is any fee to apply for an EIN number.

The IRS does not charge any government fee for issuing an EIN number. You can apply directly through the IRS at no cost.

What is EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575)?

The EIN confirmation letter (CP 575) is an official document issued by the IRS after your EIN is approved.

This letter serves as proof of your EIN number and is required for various business activities, such as:

• Opening a business bank account
• Setting up payment gateways
• Registering on e-commerce platforms
• Business verification

If you apply online, you may receive it instantly. If you apply via fax or mail, it will be sent to your registered address.

What is the Difference Between EIN, SSN, and ITIN?

Many business owners get confused between EIN, SSN, and ITIN. These are all identification numbers, but they are used for different purposes.

Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN number is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to businesses. It is used for:

• Filing business tax returns
• Opening a business bank account
• Hiring employees
• Applying for business loans or credit.
• Working with vendors and contractors

If you run an LLC or corporation, getting an EIN number for business is necessary for compliance and operations.

Social Security Number (SSN)

A Social Security Number (SSN) is issued to U.S. citizens and residents.
It is used to:

• Tax reporting
• Filing U.S. tax returns

ITIN helps non-US individuals comply with tax laws, but it does not replace the need for an EIN number when running a business.

Who Needs an EIN Number?

An EIN number is required for many types of businesses and entities in the United States. Whether you have a large company or a small business with one employee, you may need an EIN.

The following entities typically require an EIN number:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Profit Corporation
• Non-Profit Organization
• Sole Proprietorships (with employees)
• Partnerships
• Trusts and estates
• Government agencies
• Personal service corporations
• Churches and church-controlled organizations
• Plan administrators
• Military entities
• Farmers’ cooperatives
• Indian tribal governments and enterprises
• Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits (REMIC)

If your business falls under any of these categories, you will likely need an EIN number for business operations and tax purposes.

What Are the Benefits of an EIN Number?

The main benefit of an EIN number is that it allows you to run your business properly and stay compliant with U.S. regulations.

Without an EIN number, it can be difficult to manage business activities and financial operations.

Here are the key benefits of having an EIN:

• Filing business tax returns
• Opening a business bank account
• Registering with payment gateways
• Hiring employees
• Applying for business loans and grants
• Building business credit
• Applying for licenses and permits
• Operating on e-commerce platforms
• Managing business transactions
• Keeping personal and business finances separate

What is the Purpose of an EIN Number?

The purpose of an EIN number is to identify your business for tax and financial activities in the United States.

An EIN is required for multiple business functions, including:

• Opening a bank account
• Hiring employees
• Filing tax returns
• Managing financial transactions
• Using platforms like e-commerce or payment gateways

Tax Purpose

An EIN number is mainly used for tax-related activities. It helps the IRS identify your business when:

• Filing tax returns
• Paying business taxes
• Reporting income

Without an EIN, your business may not be able to meet its tax obligations properly.

Legal Compliance

When you register your business, many requirements such as:

• Opening bank accounts
• Getting licenses and permits
• Applying for loans
• Setting up payment gateways

Hiring Employees

If your business hires employees, an EIN number is required to:

• Report employee wages
• Manage payroll
• Handle tax forms like W-2

Business Transactions

For many business transactions such as:

• Applying for loans
• Getting business credit
• Working with vendors and suppliers

Identity Protection

An EIN number helps create a separate identity for your business. It allows you to:

• Keep business and personal finances separate
• Avoid using your SSN for business activities
• Protect your personal information

How to Cancel or Close an EIN Number

If you decide to close your business or terminate your LLC, you also need to close your EIN number (business tax account) with the IRS.
Before submitting a request to close your EIN, make sure:

• All taxes are paid
• All required tax returns are filed

If there are any pending obligations, you must complete them before closing your EIN account.

What Happens If You Don’t Close Your EIN After Closing LLC?

An LLC is registered at the state level, while the EIN number is issued by the IRS (federal level). If you close or dissolve your LLC with the state but do not inform the IRS, the IRS may still consider your business active.

As Result:

• You may continue receiving tax notices
• You may be required to file tax returns
• You could face penalties for non-compliance

That’s why it is important to close your EIN account properly after shutting down your business.

How to Close EIN with IRS

To close your EIN account, you need to send a written request to the IRS.

You can:

• Write a letter requesting EIN closure
• Or use Form 966 (if applicable)
• Attach your EIN confirmation letter (CP 575)
• Include all required business details

Send your request to:
Internal Revenue Service
Mail Stop 343 Cincinnati, OH 45999-0023

How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN Number? ▼

• Processing times vary depending on your status
• US residents with SSN or ITIN: Can get an EIN instantly through the IRS online portal. Application takes around 10 minutes
• Non-US residents without SSN or ITIN: Must apply via fax or mail using Form SS-4. Standard processing time: 4–8 weeks. Can take longer depending on IRS workload, sometimes up to 4 months
• Buykii Fast EIN Service: Non-US residents can get an EIN in 3–5 business days

Does a Single-Member LLC Require an EIN Number?▼

• Even if your LLC has only one member, you still need an EIN number
• EIN is required to open business bank accounts
• Needed to register for payment gateways
• Required for business loans or grants
• Needed for licenses and permits

Will an LLC Require an EIN Without Employees? ▼

Yes, even if your LLC has no employees, you still need an EIN number.

• Hiring employees requires EIN for payroll reporting
• Even without employees, EIN is needed for:
• Opening business bank accounts
• Payment processing
• Business credit and loans
• Regulatory compliance

How to Find a Lost or Misplaced EIN Number ▼

If you lose or misplace your EIN number, you can recover it using the following methods:

• Check IRS Notices: Look for previous IRS letters containing your EIN
• Bank or Payment Gateways: Your EIN may be on your account documentation
• Tax Returns: Review filed forms where EIN was used
• Contact IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: 1-800-829-4933

Is there a faster way for non-U.S. residents to get an EIN? ▼

Yes. When you hire Buykii, we can usually get your EIN in 2–4 business days with our Premium package, even if you don’t have an SSN.

Do I Need an SSN to Apply for EIN? ▼

It depends on how you apply:

• Online application: Requires an SSN or ITIN
• Mail or fax application: No SSN or ITIN required for non-US residents

This flexibility allows international entrepreneurs to legally start a US business without a Social Security number.

Do I Need an EIN for Shopify, Amazon, or a Business Bank Account? ▼

Yes, an EIN is required for most business platforms:

• Shopify: Required for US-based LLCs to set up payment gateways and comply with tax reporting
• Amazon Seller Account: Needed to register as a business seller and for US tax reporting (1099-K)
• Business Bank Account: Banks will not open a business account for an LLC or corporation without an EIN

Having an EIN ensures you can operate your business smoothly across platforms and comply with IRS regulations.

Does an EIN Expire? ▼

No. Once an EIN is issued by the IRS, it is valid for the lifetime of the business.

• There is no expiration date
• You only need to update it if your business information changes (e.g., address or responsible party)

Can I Update My EIN Information? ▼

Yes, you can update your EIN information with the IRS:

• Change business address: Submit Form 8822-B to the IRS
• Change owner or responsible party: Submit Form 8822-B after updating your LLC or corporation records with the state

Helpful Resources

Internal Revenue Service(IRS) ↗ SBA (Small Business Administration) ↗ Apply for EIN ↗