How to Get an EIN Number: A Beginner’s Guide for Entrepreneurs

Wiki Article

If you're planning to start a business in the United States — whether you're a U.S. resident or a foreign founder — one of the first steps you’ll need to take is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

In this beginner’s guide, we’ll break down how to get an EIN number, why it matters, and how services like USAIndiaCFO can make the process smoother — especially for international founders who often face extra hurdles.

Let’s dive in.

What Is an EIN Number?

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Think of it as a Social Security Number (SSN), but for your business.

The EIN is also known as:

• Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)

• Federal Tax Identification Number

You’ll use this number for important business tasks such as:

• Opening a U.S. business bank account

• Filing federal and state taxes

• Hiring employees

• Applying for business licenses

• Working with U.S. payment processors like Stripe and PayPal

Even if you don’t plan to hire employees right away, having an EIN is essential for running a compliant and credible business in the U.S.

Who Needs an EIN?

You need an EIN if:

• You form a U.S. LLC or Corporation

• Your business has employees

• You operate as a partnership

• You plan to open a U.S. business bank account

• You need to file federal tax returns

• You work with U.S.-based platforms like Amazon, Shopify, or Stripe

Foreign Founders: Pay Attention

If you're a non-U.S. resident or Indian entrepreneur, you will still need an EIN to operate your U.S. business — even if you don’t live in the United States. In fact, without an EIN, you can’t legally open a U.S. business bank account or comply with IRS tax rules.

How to Get an EIN Number: Step-by-Step

Now that you know why an EIN is important, let’s walk through how to get one.

Step 1: Form Your U.S. Business Entity

Before applying for an EIN, you must form a legal business structure in the U.S., such as:

• LLC (Limited Liability Company)

• C-Corp (Common for startups)

• Sole Proprietorship or Partnership (less common for foreign founders)

Tip: Most international entrepreneurs register an LLC in states like Wyoming or a C-Corp in Delaware.

If you're not sure which structure to choose, USAIndiaCFO provides personalized consultation based on your business goals and tax situation.

Step 2: Complete Form SS-4

The SS-4 form is the official application for your EIN. It requires basic business information, including:

• Your legal business name

• Type of entity (LLC, C-Corp, etc.)

• Responsible party (typically the founder or owner)

• Mailing address (can be U.S. or foreign)

• Reason for applying (e.g., starting a new business)

Important: Foreign founders without an SSN or ITIN can still apply for an EIN — but the process must be handled differently.

Step 3: Submit the Application to the IRS

There are three main ways to submit your EIN application:

1. Online (U.S. residents only)

   • Available Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time

   • Must have a valid SSN or ITIN

   • EIN is issued instantly

2. Fax or Mail (For non-resident foreigners)

   • Foreign founders must complete the SS-4 and fax it to +1-855-641-6935 (or mail it to the IRS in Cincinnati, Ohio)

   • Processing time is usually 2–4 weeks

3. Via a Third-Party Service (Recommended for Foreigners)

   • If you're outside the U.S. and don't have a U.S. tax ID, using a trusted third-party service like USAIndiaCFO ensures a hassle-free process.

   • They handle everything from EIN application to follow-up with the IRS, so you don’t have to deal with red tape.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many beginners make mistakes that can delay their EIN application or cause IRS issues down the line. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Submitting an incomplete or incorrect SS-4 form

• Using a business name that doesn’t match incorporation documents

• Not specifying the correct entity type

• Assuming you can apply online without an SSN

• Not keeping a copy of the confirmation letter (CP 575)

To avoid these errors, it’s best to get professional help — especially if you’re incorporating from outside the U.S.

Why Use USAIndiaCFO for Your EIN Application?

At this point, you might be thinking: Can’t I just do it myself?

Technically, yes — but for non-residents, the process can be slow, confusing, and error-prone. That’s where USAIndiaCFO comes in.

Here's how they make life easier:

✅ Expert Guidance
They specialize in working with Indian entrepreneurs and other international founders who are incorporating in the U.S. for the first time.

✅ Fast EIN Application
They know exactly what to include on the SS-4 and how to follow up with the IRS, reducing wait times and minimizing errors.

✅ Bundled Incorporation + EIN Services
If you haven’t incorporated your business yet, they’ll take care of formation + EIN + bank account setup — all in one smooth package.

✅ Compliance Support
Beyond just getting your EIN, USAIndiaCFO also helps you stay IRS-compliant with annual filings, taxes, and reports.

Conclusion: Your EIN is the Gateway to Doing Business in the USA

Getting your EIN number is one of the most critical steps in launching your U.S. business — especially if you're operating internationally. While the process may seem simple on the surface, it can be time-consuming and tricky if you don’t understand the IRS requirements.