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How to get an EIN without an SSN (for non-US owners)

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is the nine-digit US tax number for a business. US banks, Stripe, Amazon and the IRS all ask for it. The IRS doesn't charge for it.

You don't need an SSN or ITIN

The IRS's online EIN application only works when the responsible person has an SSN or ITIN. Owners without one apply with Form SS-4 instead — by fax or by mail, or by phone for international applicants. It's the same EIN, just a different route.

How long it takes

• By fax: often a few business days, sometimes longer when the IRS is busy.
• By mail: usually several weeks.

What you need

• The company's exact legal name and US address, and the date it was formed.
• The responsible person's name and address in Thailand.
• The type of entity and the reason for applying (for example, starting a new business).
• A fax number or mailing address where the IRS can send the confirmation letter (CP 575).

Common mistakes

• A company name that doesn't exactly match the state filing.
• Choosing the wrong entity type — for a single-member LLC owned by a non-US person this also decides what you must file every year (usually Form 5472).
• Applying twice — a second application can create a second EIN, which causes problems later.

General information, not tax advice.

More guides

• What is an ITIN, and do you need one?
• How to apply for an ITIN from Thailand
• Which documents do you need for an ITIN?
• Does an ITIN expire? How to renew it
• Form W-8BEN for Thai YouTubers, authors and investors
• US LLC for Thai sellers: Amazon, Shopify, Stripe and more
• Opening a US bank account from Thailand: your options
• Filing a US tax return (1040-NR) from Thailand
• Getting paid in US dollars in Thailand: bank transfer, Wise, Payoneer or PayPal

General information only — not tax or legal advice. TinTax is not affiliated with the IRS.