How to Get an EIN Without a Social Security Number
If you don't have a Social Security number, you can get an EIN using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) by filing IRS Form SS-4 by mail or fax, or by calling the IRS directly. You cannot use a CPN or SPN — only a valid SSN or ITIN is accepted. The SS-4 process takes 4–8 weeks; calling the IRS is immediate.
Method 1: Apply by Phone (Fastest)
If you have an ITIN:
- Call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line: 1-800-829-4933
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 AM–7 PM Eastern Time
- Have your business information ready: LLC name, address, registered agent, and your ITIN
- An IRS agent will issue your EIN immediately over the phone
- You'll receive your EIN during the call and the written confirmation by mail
Method 2: File Form SS-4 by Mail or Fax
If you don't have an ITIN yet or prefer mail/fax:
- Get your ITIN first (if you don't have one):
- File IRS Form W-7 with the IRS along with supporting identity documents
- Processing takes 7–11 weeks
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An ITIN is a 9-digit number that starts with "9" (e.g., 9XX-XX-XXXX)
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Complete Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number):
- Download from irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-ss-4
- Line 7a: Enter your ITIN as the responsible party's SSN/ITIN
- Line 7b: Leave blank (no SSN box to check)
- Include your foreign address in the appropriate section
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Enter your LLC name, registered agent name and address, and reason for applying
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Submit by mail or fax:
- Fax: IRS will fax back your EIN within 4 business days
- Mail: IRS will mail your EIN in 4–5 weeks
What Is an ITIN?
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a 9-digit tax processing number issued by the IRS to individuals who:
- Are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number, AND
- Are not eligible for a Social Security number
ITINs are used for tax purposes only — they do not authorize you to work in the U.S. and are not a form of identification outside the tax system.
What You CANNOT Use
You cannot use a CPN (Credit Privacy Number) or SPN (Secondary Credit Number) in place of an SSN or ITIN on an EIN application. Using a CPN as a substitute for an SSN is a federal crime. ZenBusiness does not offer CPNs. For more information, see the FTC's consumer guidance on CPNs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an ITIN?
The IRS processes Form W-7 (ITIN application) in 7–11 weeks during normal processing periods; longer during peak tax season (January–April). Submit early if you have a timeline.
Can I get an EIN before getting an ITIN?
If you have no ITIN, the fastest path is to call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line and apply by phone — the IRS agent can sometimes issue an EIN to a foreign national by verifying identity during the call even without an ITIN. This depends on the agent and your specific situation. Ask specifically about this option when you call.
Does ZenBusiness help non-residents get an EIN?
Yes — ZenBusiness can help prepare Form SS-4 for non-resident applicants. Contact our support team at (844) 493-6249 and we'll walk through the process for your situation.