If you’re planning to launch or grow a business in the United States, there’s one essential number you can’t overlook — the Employer Identification Number, commonly referred to as an EIN. Think of it as the Social Security Number for your business. It’s used for everything from filing taxes to opening a U.S. bank account, hiring employees, and even setting up payment gateways like Stripe and PayPal.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down what an EIN is, why it matters, how to apply for one, and how USAIndiaCFO simplifies the entire process — especially for Indian and international founders.

What Is an Employer Identification Number (EIN)?

The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to businesses operating in the United States. It’s also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number.

Just as individuals use Social Security Numbers (SSNs) to identify themselves for tax purposes, businesses use EINs to:

• File tax returns

• Open business bank accounts

• Apply for business licenses

• Hire employees

• Register for state-level taxes

• Work with U.S. vendors and payment platforms

Whether you’re forming a U.S. LLC, C-Corporation, or even a sole proprietorship, an EIN is almost always required.

Who Needs an EIN?

You need an EIN if any of the following apply:

• You are starting a business in the USA

• Your company has employees

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

• You want to register for Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, or other platforms

• You’re required to file federal taxes as a corporation or partnership

• Your business will pay excise or employment taxes

• You plan to establish business credit in the U.S.

Even if you’re a foreign founder with no Social Security Number (SSN), you still need an EIN to operate legally and efficiently in the U.S. — and yes, you can get one without visiting the United States or having U.S. citizenship.

Benefits of Having an EIN for Your U.S. Business

Let’s look at how obtaining an EIN helps you operate your business smoothly:

✅ Open a U.S. Business Bank Account

Almost all banks require an EIN to open a business checking account in the U.S.

✅ Establish Business Credit

With an EIN, your company can build a credit profile, apply for business credit cards, and gain access to loans.

✅ Ensure Tax Compliance

Whether you’re running an LLC or a C-Corp, the IRS requires businesses to file taxes using their EIN.

✅ Hire Employees Legally

If you plan to grow your U.S. team, you must have an EIN to report employee wages and payroll taxes.

✅ Work with U.S. Payment Platforms

Platforms like Stripe, PayPal, Shopify, and Amazon typically require a valid EIN for account setup.

How to Apply for an EIN (Especially as a Non-Resident)

The standard way to apply for an EIN is through the IRS — but the process is not always straightforward, especially if you’re applying from outside the U.S. or don’t have a Social Security Number.

Here are your options:

Option 1: Apply Online (for U.S. Residents Only)

Only available to applicants with a U.S. SSN and U.S. business presence.

Option 2: Apply by Fax or Mail (for Foreign Founders)

If you don’t have an SSN or ITIN, you must submit Form SS-4 via fax or mail. The form must be filled carefully to avoid delays or rejections.

This process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks — but mistakes can lead to longer wait times.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an EIN

Many founders make errors that delay or derail their EIN application. Here are some common issues:

• Using the wrong business entity type (LLC vs C-Corp)

• Listing incorrect U.S. addresses or registered agent details

• Submitting an incomplete Form SS-4

• Failing to sign the form as an authorized representative

• Attempting to apply online without a valid SSN

Fortunately, there’s a better way — working with experts who’ve done this many times before.

How USAIndiaCFO Helps You Get an EIN — Hassle-Free

USAIndiaCFO specializes in helping Indian founders and foreign entrepreneurs set up U.S. companies without visiting the U.S. One of their core services is handling EIN applications end to end — especially for those without SSNs or U.S. residency.

Here’s how USAIndiaCFO makes it easy:

🔹 Error-Free Form SS-4 Preparation

Their team ensures that your SS-4 is completed with the correct structure, format, and entity classification — reducing delays and rejections.

🔹 No SSN? No Problem.

USAIndiaCFO works with founders who have no SSN or ITIN and still ensures successful EIN issuance from the IRS.

🔹 Fast Turnaround

While the IRS may take 2–4 weeks via fax, USAIndiaCFO monitors the process and follows up to make sure you get your EIN as soon as possible.

🔹 Bundled With Incorporation

If you’re also incorporating your U.S. company through USAIndiaCFO, EIN application is included in your package — no need to do it separately.

🔹 Support Beyond EIN

Once you receive your EIN, USAIndiaCFO can help you open a U.S. bank account, register for taxes, and stay compliant with IRS rules.

What Happens After You Get Your EIN?

Once you have your EIN in hand, your business is ready to go! Here’s what you can do next:

• Open a U.S. business bank account with fintech banks like Mercury, Relay, or Brex

• Set up Stripe and PayPal for global payments

• Register for state and federal taxes

• Hire employees or contractors legally

• Build business credit for future growth

With USAIndiaCFO’s ongoing support, you can also add Virtual CFO Services, monthly financial reporting, tax filing, and advisory — helping you scale your U.S. business worry-free.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the EIN Process Hold You Back

Getting an Employer Identification Number is a must for any business that wants to operate legally and efficiently in the U.S. From opening a bank account to building financial credibility, the EIN unlocks real-world opportunities.

While the process can be slow and confusing — especially for foreign founders — USAIndiaCFO takes the burden off your shoulders. They’ve helped hundreds of Indian entrepreneurs incorporate in the U.S., get their EIN, and stay compliant with IRS regulations.