Applying for an EIN without an SSN often takes longer than expected, especially for non-US founders unfamiliar with the process.

In many of the cases we’ve worked on, this step creates the most uncertainty, especially for founders who are setting up a U.S. company for the first time.

When assisting a non-US founder with their EIN application, the main question is usually whether it can be done remotely and how long the process will take.In one case, a founder submitted the application with incorrect responsible party information, which caused the process to be delayed and required resubmission.

In general, non-US founders can apply for an EIN without an SSN by submitting the appropriate forms to the IRS. However, the process is different from what U.S. residents typically experience.

In practice, timing is one of the biggest challenges. Unlike online applications available to U.S. residents, non-US applicants often need to apply by fax or through other methods, which can take longer.

We’ve also seen delays caused by incomplete forms or misunderstandings about the responsible party section, which is a common point of confusion.Another common situation is underestimating the processing time, especially when applying from outside the U.S., which can affect timelines for banking and payment setup.

For most non-US founders, preparation is key before submitting the application.

What we usually suggest:

• make sure all information is accurate before submission
• understand the role of the responsible party
• be prepared for a longer processing time compared to U.S. applicants

In real situations, the EIN application is not difficult, but it requires attention to detail and patience.

For non-US founders, understanding how the process works in advance can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Written by Liyun. Based on practical experience assisting non-US founders with U.S. company formation.