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How to Get an EIN Without an SSN (Form SS-4)

Last updated October 27, 2026

Quick answer

Form SS-4 is the application for an Employer Identification Number (EIN), the federal tax ID a U.S. LLC or corporation needs to open a bank account, hire, and file returns such as Form 5472. Owners without an SSN or ITIN cannot use the IRS online EIN tool, but they can still get an EIN by sending Form SS-4 to the IRS by fax or mail; international applicants can also apply by phone. The IRS does not charge for an EIN.

Prepare Form SS-4 with Filing Hive

Free to start — you only pay when you download or file.

Who needs Form SS-4

• New U.S. LLCs and corporations, including those formed by non-U.S. founders

• Foreign owners who have no SSN or ITIN and cannot use the online EIN application

• Trusts, estates and other entities that need a federal tax ID

Form SS-4 at a glance

Cost at the IRS

Free — the IRS charges nothing for an EIN

SSN or ITIN required?

No, but without one you must apply by fax, mail or phone instead of online

Responsible party

The individual who ultimately owns or controls the company

Processing

Fax applications are usually faster than mail, which can take several weeks

Needed for

U.S. bank accounts, payment platforms, Form 5472 and other IRS filings

How to apply for an EIN with Form SS-4

1. Form the U.S. entity first

Have the LLC or corporation registered with the state, so you can give its exact legal name, address and formation date.

2. Identify the responsible party

This is the individual who ultimately owns or controls the company — for a single-member LLC, usually the owner.

3. Complete Form SS-4

Enter the entity name, address, entity type, number of members, reason for applying and start date. Single-member LLCs indicate they are a disregarded entity.

4. Sign and submit it to the IRS

Fax or mail the signed form. The EIN is sent back to the fax number or address you provide.

5. Keep the IRS confirmation letter

Banks and payment providers often ask for the IRS EIN confirmation notice, so store it safely.

Form SS-4: frequently asked questions

Can I get an EIN without an SSN or ITIN?

Yes. Foreign owners without an SSN or ITIN can get an EIN for their U.S. company. They just cannot use the IRS online application and have to submit Form SS-4 by fax or mail, or apply by phone as an international applicant.

How long does it take to get an EIN by fax?

Fax applications are generally processed faster than mailed ones — often within about a week — while mailed applications can take several weeks. Timing depends on IRS workload.

Does the IRS charge for an EIN?

No. The IRS issues EINs for free. Filing Hive charges only for preparing the form for you through a guided flow.

Do I need an EIN to file Form 5472?

Yes. The pro forma Form 1120 and Form 5472 are filed under the LLC’s EIN, so you need one before you can file.

This guide is general information about IRS requirements, not tax or legal advice. Rules and amounts can change — check the current IRS instructions or a tax professional for your situation. How we write our guides