If you’re starting or expanding your business in the United States, one of the first things you’ll hear about is the US EIN number. For many international entrepreneurs — especially those from India — this step can feel complicated. But in reality, it’s simply a key part of setting up your business legally and making sure you can operate smoothly.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through what a US EIN number is, why you need it, and how you can get one — even if you’re not a U.S. resident. Plus, we’ll share how USAIndiaCFO can handle the entire process for you.

What Is a US EIN Number?

A US EIN number, or Employer Identification Number, is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It works like a Social Security Number — but for your business. It’s a unique nine-digit number that identifies your company for tax and regulatory purposes.

Why Do You Need a US EIN Number?

Many people think EINs are only for hiring employees, but that’s just one reason to have one. Here are several situations where an EIN becomes essential:

• Opening a U.S. business bank account

• Filing U.S. tax returns for your business

• Hiring employees or contractors in the USA

• Applying for business licenses and permits

• Using payment gateways like Stripe, PayPal, and Amazon Seller Central

In short, without an EIN, your business activities in the USA will be severely limited.

Can Non-US Residents Get a US EIN Number?

Yes — and this is important. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have a U.S. address to get an EIN. Many Indian entrepreneurs register their businesses in the USA and then apply for an EIN to operate legally.

However, the process is a bit different for non-residents because you might not have a Social Security Number (SSN). That’s where working with experts like USAIndiaCFO can save you time and eliminate confusion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a US EIN Number

Let’s break the process down into simple steps.

Step 1: Form Your U.S. Business Entity

Before you can apply for an EIN, you need a legal U.S. entity — usually an LLC or a C-Corporation. This step is essential because the IRS issues EINs to registered businesses, not individuals (except in some sole proprietor cases).

Tip: If you haven’t formed your U.S. company yet, USAIndiaCFO can handle both the incorporation and EIN application together, so you don’t waste time.

Step 2: Fill Out IRS Form SS-4

The IRS uses Form SS-4 to collect information about your business, including:

• Legal name of your business

• Type of entity (LLC, C-Corp, etc.)

• Name and address of the responsible party

• Reason for applying

For non-residents, some sections require special handling, which is why expert guidance is valuable.

Step 3: Submit the Application to the IRS

You can apply for an EIN:

• Online: Only available to those with a valid SSN or ITIN (so not always for non-residents)

• By Fax or Mail: Common for international applications

• By Phone: For non-U.S. applicants, the IRS allows phone applications, but the process can be lengthy

Since IRS phone lines can have long wait times, many founders prefer USAIndiaCFO to submit their EIN applications on their behalf.

Step 4: Receive Your EIN Confirmation Letter

Once approved, the IRS sends you an official letter called CP 575, confirming your EIN. Keep this document safe — banks, payment processors, and licensing authorities may request it.

How Long Does It Take to Get a US EIN Number?

• Online applications: Immediate

• Fax applications: Around 4 business days

• Mail applications: 4–6 weeks

• Phone applications (for non-residents): Immediate, if you get through successfully

With USAIndiaCFO, many Indian founders receive their EIN in less than a week because the paperwork is prepared and submitted correctly the first time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When applying for a US EIN number, watch out for these errors:

• Using the wrong entity name or spelling mistakes

• Selecting the wrong entity type (LLC vs. C-Corp)

• Leaving mandatory sections blank

• Misunderstanding U.S. tax obligations after getting your EIN

Avoiding these mistakes can save you weeks of delays — which is exactly why having experts handle the process is a smart move.

Why Work with USAIndiaCFO for Your EIN?

Getting an EIN might seem like a small task, but if done incorrectly, it can stall your U.S. business launch. USAIndiaCFO specializes in helping Indian entrepreneurs with:

• LLC or C-Corp formation in any U.S. state

• EIN application for non-residents

• U.S. bank account setup without traveling

• Annual compliance and tax filings

• Virtual CFO services for long-term financial management

With their end-to-end approach, you can focus on running your business while they handle the paperwork.

Real-Life Example: How USAIndiaCFO Helped an Indian Founder

Priya, an e-commerce entrepreneur from Mumbai, wanted to sell on Amazon USA. She needed both a U.S. business and an EIN to get started.
Within seven days of contacting USAIndiaCFO, she had:

• A registered Wyoming LLC

• Her US EIN number from the IRS

• A U.S. bank account ready to receive payments

Now, her store is live and serving customers across the United States.

Final Thoughts

A US EIN number is more than just a tax ID — it’s your business’s gateway to operating legally and effectively in the U.S. market. Whether you’re starting a tech startup, launching an e-commerce store, or expanding your consulting services, having your EIN in place is non-negotiable.