Can I Get an EIN Without an SSN?

An EIN, or employer identification number, is a type of tax ID number that businesses, estates, and trusts use for tax purposes. Applying for one includes filling out the forms needed, which usually requires inputting a Social Security number to show eligibility. However, what if you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number but need an EIN? What do you do to obtain an EIN without an SSN?

How To Get an EIN Without an SSN

A few options are available, and which one is right for you depends on your situation. One approach is to apply for a Social Security number first and then follow with the application for an EIN. You can get your SSN when requesting an immigrant visa or once you enter the country. However, to qualify for an SSN, you must be authorized to work in the U.S.

That route is not available if you do not have employment reasons to get an SSN, still leaving the question of how to apply for an EIN without an SSN. For individual tax purposes, what you need is an ITIN instead. This acronym stands for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number and is only open to nonresidents.

For foreign companies and other entities doing business in the U.S., an EIN is still necessary and requires a different form and instructions. If you have a sole proprietorship with no employees, you do not need an EIN. An SSN or ITIN will suffice, though you still have the choice of getting an EIN instead.

How To Make the Process Easy

Are you overwhelmed with all the different tax IDs and forms? Dealing with the IRS can be very confusing, causing you to delay taking this step or to make a mistake. You can simplify the process to get an EIN without an SSN by using our services here at GovGDocFiling.