Federal Tax ID (EIN)

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a federal tax ID issued by the IRS to businesses — similar to a personal tax ID but for companies.

An EIN is required to open a business bank account, register an international payment gateway, file taxes, and hire staff in the US — even if you don’t reside in the US.

Why use this service at AWE Global?

Required to open a bank account

Most US business banks require a valid EIN.

Required for payment gateways

A mandatory requirement when registering Stripe, PayPal Business, Shopify Payments, and more.

No SSN needed

International business owners can still obtain an EIN without a Social Security Number.

Process

01Confirm the business has a valid formation filing

02Prepare the application using IRS Form SS-4

03Submit the EIN application to the IRS

04Receive and hand over the EIN confirmation

Documents / information needed

Certificate of business formation
Responsible Party information
Business industry

An EIN is one of the first documents requested when opening a bank account or registering an international payment gateway — many applications get rejected simply due to missing or incorrect EIN information at the very first step.

Common mistakes to avoid

Applying for an EIN before the business formation filing is complete, causing mismatched information and rejection.
Providing incorrect Responsible Party information, causing difficulties verifying with the IRS or a bank later.
Thinking an SSN is required to get an EIN, causing many international business owners to miss the opportunity to register.

Frequently asked questions

Can a non-US resident get an EIN?

Yes, it is entirely possible to get an EIN without an SSN or US residency.

Is there a fee for an EIN?

The IRS issues EINs for free; any cost is for assistance preparing the application.

Does an EIN expire?

No, an EIN is valid permanently unless the business dissolves or changes its legal structure.