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MenuEIN number for non us resident during COVID
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No. That service is likely a scam. The only way you could obtain an EIN that quickly is if the service company is using an SSN or ITIN of an individual working at their company. This is often referred to as a nominee application. The IRS strictly prohibits nominee applications for an EIN. Under normal circumstances a nonresident could apply for an EIN via fax and receive an EIN in 6 to 10 business days. Because of Covid, we are seeing a turnaround time of between 70 and 80 days.
My answer will:
1️⃣ Give you a straight answer on how EINs work for non-U.S. residents
2️⃣ Explain how some services appear to get EINs fast — and why that can be a problem
3️⃣ Point out what others said that’s technically correct but not explained clearly enough
✅ TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
❌ No, you cannot get a legitimate EIN in 24 hours as a non-U.S. resident without a U.S. SSN or ITIN, unless someone else applies on your behalf using their own information — which is risky and possibly illegal.
✅ If you’re applying as a non-resident with no SSN, the only proper way is by faxing Form SS-4 to the IRS, and as of COVID/post-COVID delays, it takes about 6–10 weeks, sometimes more.
If someone says they can get you an EIN instantly, they may be:
Using a nominee’s SSN (against IRS rules)
Reusing a previously issued EIN (not valid for you)
Or submitting the form electronically with a U.S. person’s details, not yours
🧠 Full Explanation
📝 1. What Is an EIN and How Can Non-U.S. Residents Get One?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a tax ID issued by the IRS to identify businesses — like an SSN but for companies.
If you’re not a U.S. citizen or resident, and don’t have an SSN or ITIN:
You must submit IRS Form SS-4 by fax or mail
You cannot apply online as a foreigner
IRS agents manually review your application
✅ Before COVID, this took 1–2 weeks by fax
❌ During and after COVID, it takes 6–10 weeks, sometimes longer
🚨 2. So How Can Some Companies Say “24 Hours”?
Some paid services claim to offer fast EINs by:
Using a U.S. employee or nominee’s SSN to file it electronically (against IRS policy)
Listing themselves as the responsible party, then changing it later
Submitting false information to speed things up
⚠️ These EINs might work temporarily to open accounts — but if the IRS audits the business, it could be:
Shut down
Fined
Marked with compliance red flags
It’s like building a business on shaky paperwork- Don't Do It!
✅ 3. The Safe and Legal Way
If you’re a non-resident:
Fill out Form SS-4 (with yourself as the responsible party)
Fax it to the IRS at +1 855-215-1627 (for international applicants)
Wait for your EIN confirmation letter (CP 575)
You can authorize someone (like a U.S. CPA or attorney) to act on your behalf — but they must still list you, not themselves, as the responsible party.
✅ That’s legal
❌ Nominee or fake SSN shortcuts are not
🔍 What the Other Answer Got Right (and Missed)
✅ They correctly pointed out the nominee issue and COVID delays
❌ didn’t explain how services create the illusion of speed
❌ didn’t walk through a safe alternative or what to look out for
🧭 Final Word
✅ No, a non-U.S. resident can’t get a real EIN in 24 hours
✅ Be cautious of services promising speed — they may put your business at risk
✅ If you want your EIN done right, fax Form SS-4 yourself or work with a CPA who files it under your name, not theirs
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