I live outside the United States but want to start doing business connected to the U.S. I know I’ll need an EIN for my company or an ITIN for myself, but I’m not sure how to apply when I’m not physically in America. How can I get an EIN or ITIN while living abroad, and what steps should I follow to make sure the IRS accepts my application without delays?
Answer by: abdullah-al-naim
4 weeks ago
Not automatically.
The IRS assigns an EIN only when a business applies for one. Most U.S. companies, including LLCs, corporations, and partnerships, must obtain an EIN to pay taxes, open bank accounts, or hire employees.
Sole proprietors and single-member LLCs without employees can technically operate using the owner’s SSN, but it’s highly recommended to get an EIN for privacy and professionalism.
Foreign-owned companies can also apply for an EIN by filing Form SS-4 with the IRS via fax or mail, even without an SSN or ITIN.
Many non-residents rely on trusted services like Business Globalizer and Steady Formation to handle EIN applications and compliance from abroad.
