EINNumber.io

Free checklist

EIN application checklist for non-U.S. founders

Six things to have ready before you file Form SS-4 — including the one name-matching detail that derails more bank applications than anything else. Read it below or get a copy by email.

Get the checklist by email

One email with the checklist. No follow-ups unless you reply.

What's inside

The six checklist items

  1. Company certificate (the only document required)

    Your Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation, as approved by your state. We copy your LLC's exact legal name from it onto the SS-4, word for word.

  2. Responsible party details

    The full name and details exactly as shown on the responsible party's passport. No passport copy is needed, but the name on the SS-4 must match it exactly.

  3. Operating Agreement (optional)

    Not required for the SS-4, but useful if there's any ambiguity about ownership or management structure.

  4. A real mailing address

    The IRS will mail your EIN confirmation here. Foreign addresses are fine, and a P.O. box can be used as a mailing address — but the street-address line (5a) can't be a P.O. box.

  5. A one-line business activity description

    What does your LLC actually do? "Online retail," "SaaS software," "Consulting services." Specific enough to be informative, simple enough to be defensible.

  6. Name matching across all documents

    The biggest single source of post-EIN bank rejections. Passport, Articles, SS-4, and bank application all need the same legal name in the same format.

Not sure your documents line up? See how we handle EIN name mismatches or read the full guide to getting an EIN without an SSN or ITIN.

Founder signing a certificate of formation, with a passport and document checklist beside it

Prefer to skip the DIY route?

If you'd rather have a specialist prepare and file the SS-4 for you, we can do that. The checklist is helpful either way.

Start your applicationTalk to a specialist

Or email support@einnumber.io

  • Reply within one business dayA specialist reviews your case and outlines a clear plan.
  • Resubmission guaranteeFree resubmission if the IRS does not assign your EIN.
  • Refund before submissionChange your mind before we file? Full refund, no questions.

The IRS determines its own processing times, which may vary depending on application volume. Faxed applications requiring a response by mail can take 1–3 months to process. We simplify the process by following up with the IRS on your behalf and keeping you informed of your application status. Once your EIN is assigned, we notify you promptly. While processing times cannot be guaranteed, we strive to make the experience as smooth and straightforward as possible. All prices are listed in USD with no hidden fees, and payments can be made securely through PayPal using supported international payment methods.