Source: https://rivet.global/blog/ein-application-online-us
Published: 2026-09-16 · Updated: 2026-09-16 · By Alexia M.

# How to apply for an EIN online, by fax or by phone

How to get an EIN for a US company: the IRS online application, who can use it, fax and mail with Form SS-4, the phone line for international applicants, and timing.

## Key takeaways

- The IRS issues EINs free; the online application gives the number immediately but needs a responsible party with an SSN or ITIN.
- Without an SSN or ITIN, file Form SS-4 by fax or mail, or call the IRS international line.
- Faxed SS-4s usually return an EIN in about four business days; mailed ones take about four weeks.
- Keep the CP 575 or 147C confirmation; banks ask for it.

"EIN application" and "ein number lookup" are among the top completions after "EIN". Every LLC and corporation needs one to open a bank account, hire or file taxes.

## Four ways to apply

| Method | Who | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Online at IRS.gov | Responsible party with SSN or ITIN | Immediate |
| Fax Form SS-4 | Anyone | About 4 business days |
| Mail Form SS-4 | Anyone | About 4 weeks |
| Phone | International applicants | During the call |

## Foreign founders

A founder abroad without an SSN or ITIN cannot finish the online form. Fill in Form SS-4, sign it, and fax it to the number on the IRS instructions, or call the international applicants line. Write "foreign" where the form asks for an SSN.

## After you get it

- Save the CP 575 notice or request a 147C letter later.
- Use the exact legal name on bank applications.
- Give it to clients who ask for a W-9 if the company is a US entity.

## Common mistakes

- Using a paid service that charges for a free form.
- Applying twice and getting two EINs.
- Naming the wrong responsible party.

## Paying into the United States: the local rail

| What | Detail |
|---|---|
| Local rail | ACH for batch payments; RTP and FedNow for instant transfers |
| Run by | Nacha for ACH; The Clearing House for RTP; the Federal Reserve for FedNow |
| Settlement | Same-day ACH within the business day, standard ACH the next; RTP and FedNow in seconds, 24/7, where both banks take part |

Source: [Nacha: Same Day ACH](https://www.nacha.org/rules/same-day-ach-moving-payments-faster). Checked when this guide was last updated; the scheme's own page has the current figures.

## Where Rivet fits

Rivet opens accounts for registered companies, including US LLCs owned by people abroad, once they have an EIN. Starter is free with USD details for ACH and wires. Rivet is not a bank; regulated partner institutions hold the funds. See [what is an EIN](/blog/what-is-an-ein) and [ITIN vs EIN](/blog/itin-vs-ein).

## Questions

### How do I apply for an EIN online?

On IRS.gov, during the online application's hours, if the responsible party has an SSN or ITIN. The EIN is issued at the end of the session.

### Can a foreign owner get an EIN?

Yes. Foreign owners without an SSN or ITIN file Form SS-4 by fax or mail, or call the IRS at the international number listed on its site.

### How much does an EIN cost?

Nothing from the IRS. Services that charge are filing the same form for you.

### What if I lost my EIN letter?

Call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax line and ask for a 147C letter.