Are you thinking of starting a company in America?
Have you started your online or business project and need to open a US bank account or activate payment gateways like Stripe and PayPal?
So, you can't complete this route without an EIN!
In this detailed article, we'll explain everything about the EIN: what it is, why it's necessary, and how to obtain one easily and without complications—even if you live outside the United States!
What is an EIN number?
EIN is an abbreviation for Employer Identification Number Also known as an Employer Identification Number or Federal Tax Number.
This number is issued by the IRS and is used to identify your company, just like a national ID number or personal identification number, but for businesses.
Why do you need an EIN?
Let's put it simply, without an EIN, you cannot:
Open a business bank account in America.
Payment gateways like Stripe, PayPal Business, Square, etc. are used.
Hiring employees inside or outside of America.
Pay taxes legally.
Formal agreements operate on behalf of your company.
Build a business credit profile for your company.
In other words: An EIN is the first real step toward establishing an officially recognized US business entity.
As a resident outside the US, can I obtain an EIN?
The answer is: Yes, and very easily!
Even if you don't have a US Social Security Number (SSN), ITIN, or even US residency, you can obtain an EIN for your company provided your company is legally registered in the US (e.g., LLC, C-Corp, etc.).
Types of businesses that can apply for an EIN
Sole Proprietorship
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Corporation (C-Corporation or S-Corporation)
General or limited partnership
Nonprofit organizations
Steps to obtain an EIN number, step by step
1. Register the company first
You can't obtain an EIN unless your company is actually registered. You must choose a US state and incorporate your company there. Most choose states such as:
Delaware:For legal flexibility and low costs.
Wyoming:No corporate income tax.
New Mexico:Preferred for privacy.
After establishing the company (either through a specialized company or through a lawyer), you will receive official documents proving the existence of your company, such as: the Certificate of Incorporation (Articles of Organization).
2. Choose the method to apply for an EIN number.
You have 3 main options:
A. Apply online (for people inside the US only)
If you are in the US and have an SSN or ITIN, you can apply directly through the IRS website and receive the number immediately.
But for foreigners, this method is often not available.
b. Apply by faxing Form SS-4.
This is the most popular method for foreigners, and it is done as follows:
Complete Form SS-4 (found on the IRS website)
Enter company information, address, type of business, trade name, owner, etc.
Fax the form to:
+1 855-641-6935 (For non-residents)
Response is usually within 1 to 4 weeks.
C. Submit by regular mail (slowest method)
This is the traditional method, but it takes 4 to 8 weeks. The form should be sent to the following postal address:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: ONE Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
How do you fill out form SS-4?
This is the part that scares most people, but don't worry, filling out the form is easier than you expect. The most important fields to pay attention to are:
1. Legal Name of Entity:Your official company name.
4a و 4bYour company address, preferably a US address (possibly a virtual one).
7a and 7bName and address of the responsible person (company owner).
9aEntity Type – Choose “LLC” or “Corporation”.
10Reason: Select “Started a new business”.
18Number of employees - Enter 0 if you don't have any.
Line 11: الشهر اللي بدأت فيه الشركة.
How long does it take to issue an EIN?
✅ If applied online: Immediately
✅ If submitted by fax:Within 1 to 4 weeks
✅ If sent by regular mail: 4 to 8 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the EIN number the same as the ITIN number?
No, an ITIN is an individual identification number for individuals who are not eligible for an SSN, while an EIN is for businesses.
Do I need a lawyer or accounting firm to issue an EIN?
It's possible, but not necessary. If you're comfortable filling out forms and working in English, you can do it yourself. However, if you'd like to take it easy and ensure everything is 100% legal, we offer the full service.
Ok, what is the benefit if I get an EIN number?
Let's be honest:
Open a US bank account in your company's name
Activate American payment gateways
Register your company on sites like Amazon, Stripe, PayPal
By adopting trust and legality for your business
You can build a business credit file.
It separates you from your company financially (especially if it is an LLC)
Who can I help with this service?
✅ Arab entrepreneurs
✅ E-business owners (stores - services - applications)
✅ Online marketers
✅ Freelancers
✅ Anyone intending to enter the US market
Do you need an EIN number for your US company?
Don't waste your time with stress, searching and long waiting…
We are in Ghayat Ghayat Ltd. We offer you a legal and quick service to issue an EIN for your American company. You can fill out the form, submit it, and follow up with a response until you receive the official copy.
No SSN
No ITIN
Even if you don't have US residency
How to contact us?
Contact us directly via WhatsApp:
0095372851589
We offer you a free consultation and do everything for you from A to Z.
a summary
An EIN is the key to entering the American business world.
Whether you are a marketer, a digital business owner, or even a hobbyist interested in expanding, don't underestimate this number!
Start your journey with confidence now, and let us help you establish your American company from the first step.