EIN without an SSN: how non-residents get one for their LLC

You can get an EIN without an SSN. The IRS issues EINs to LLCs owned by non-residents all the time; without a Social Security Number or ITIN, the application simply goes on Form SS-4 instead of the online form. EXNNA prepares it and sends it for you, and your LLC documents never wait for the IRS.

What is an EIN, and when do you need one?

The EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your LLC's tax ID with the IRS, the U.S. federal tax agency. You need it to open a bank account, receive payments, pay taxes and hire.

You don't need it to form the company. The State creates the LLC first, and the EIN comes after. If you're still at the start, here is how a non-resident forms a U.S. LLC.

Can you get an EIN without an SSN or ITIN?

Yes. The IRS asks for a responsible party: a real person who owns or controls the LLC. If that person has an SSN or ITIN, it goes on the application. If not, the application goes on Form SS-4, sent to the IRS outside the online flow, and it takes longer.

Mixing up the two numbers? See ITIN vs EIN.

Who is the responsible party?

Always an individual, never a company. EXNNA and the registered agent can't take that role, because they only help with the formation (IRS, responsible parties).

This is the one step where your identity goes to the IRS. We ask for it only if you choose EIN assistance, and only for that application. The State's public record still doesn't name you: that's how an anonymous LLC in New Mexico works.

What does Form SS-4 ask?

• The LLC's legal name and address
• The responsible party and their taxpayer number, if any
• The number of members
• How the LLC is classified for tax
• Where the responsible party is

You answer these questions in your dashboard. We show you exactly what will go to the IRS and send it only after you approve.

How do you receive the EIN?

Two ways, same price.

Straight from the IRS. The IRS sends the number to an address or fax you control. You don't have to share it with us.

Through EXNNA. You name an EXNNA representative as your third-party designee, and the EIN lands in your dashboard. This option needs a handwritten signature on the IRS form; you upload a photo or scan of the signed page.

How long does the IRS take?

An EIN without an SSN goes through Form SS-4, and the IRS sets its own pace, so we don't promise a date. Your dashboard shows the day the SS-4 was sent, and "EIN issued" appears only with the number or the IRS confirmation.

Your LLC doesn't wait. New Mexico (NM), a U.S. state, usually approves in 1–3 business days, and your Articles and Operating Agreement are ready to download right away. Once the EIN arrives, the usual next step is a U.S. bank account for your LLC.

How much does EIN assistance cost?

$50 when you add it to your formation, $250 in total. If you decide later, it's $79 on its own. Every option is on our pricing, and you can form your LLC online in about two minutes.

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