FREE Ask us anything before you pay. No commitment. No pressure.

How Long Does It Take to Get an EIN?

EIN processing time depends on the application method you use. US residents with a Social Security Number get an EIN instantly through the IRS online application. Non-US residents without an SSN must apply by fax (2–4 weeks) or mail (4–6 weeks) using Form SS-4. This guide explains current IRS processing times for each method, what affects processing speed, how to check your EIN application status, what to do while waiting for your EIN to arrive, and how to avoid delays that restart the processing clock.

EIN Processing Times at a Glance

The IRS offers three methods to apply for an EIN, each with different processing times. Your eligibility for each method depends on whether you have a US Social Security Number. Here is the current processing time for each EIN application method as of March 2026.

MethodWho Can Use ItProcessing Time
Online (IRS.gov)US residents with SSN onlyInstant
Fax (Form SS-4)Anyone, including non-residents2–4 weeks
Mail (Form SS-4)Anyone, including non-residents4–6 weeks

Non-residents without an SSN cannot use the instant online system. The fax method is the fastest option available to non-US residents, typically taking 2–4 weeks from the date you fax Form SS-4 to the IRS. Mail applications take 4–6 weeks due to postal delivery time and manual processing.

Key fact: Processing time begins when the IRS receives your complete and accurate Form SS-4, not when you send it. Errors, missing information, or illegible faxes cause rejections that restart the processing clock. Submitting a complete, accurate form the first time is critical to avoiding delays.

Online EIN Application — Instant (US Residents Only)

The IRS online EIN application at IRS.gov is the fastest way to get an EIN. The application is processed in real-time, and you receive your EIN immediately at the end of the online session. The entire process takes 10–15 minutes if you have all required information ready.

Who Can Use the Online EIN Application

The online EIN application is available only to individuals who have a valid US Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Eligibility includes:

  • US citizens with an SSN
  • US permanent residents (green card holders) with an SSN
  • Work visa holders with an SSN (H-1B, L-1, O-1, E-2, TN)
  • Individuals with an ITIN who have a US tax filing obligation

Why Non-Residents Cannot Use Online EIN

The IRS online system requires the responsible party (the person applying for the EIN) to enter a valid SSN or ITIN to verify identity. Non-residents who have never worked in the US or filed US taxes do not have an SSN or ITIN. The online system rejects applications without a valid SSN or ITIN. Non-residents must use the fax or mail method instead.

Some non-residents obtain an ITIN first to gain access to the instant online EIN system. However, getting an ITIN takes 7–11 weeks and requires a US tax filing obligation. For most non-residents, applying for an EIN by fax (2–4 weeks) is faster than first getting an ITIN (7–11 weeks) to use the online system. Read more about what an EIN is and its uses.

EIN by Fax — 2–4 Weeks (Non-Residents)

Fax is the recommended EIN application method for non-US residents without an SSN. The IRS processes faxed Form SS-4 applications in 2–4 weeks. This is significantly faster than mail and is the most reliable method for international applicants.

How to Apply for an EIN by Fax

  1. Download Form SS-4 from IRS.gov
  2. Complete all required fields accurately
  3. Write "Foreign" in the SSN/ITIN field (Line 7b)
  4. Add a cover sheet with your return fax number or email address
  5. Fax to the IRS international fax number: +1-267-941-1099

The IRS sends your EIN confirmation (Form CP 575) by return fax if you provide a fax number on the cover sheet. If you provide an email address or mailing address, the IRS mails the CP 575 letter. Receiving the confirmation by fax is faster than waiting for international mail delivery.

What to Include on Your Fax Cover Sheet

Your fax cover sheet should include:

  • Your name and LLC name
  • Your return fax number (for receiving the EIN confirmation)
  • Your mailing address
  • Your phone number and email address
  • Total number of pages (cover sheet + Form SS-4)
  • Date of transmission

Current Fax Processing Times

As of March 2026, the IRS is processing faxed EIN applications in 2–4 weeks. Processing time varies depending on IRS workload, time of year, and application accuracy. January through April is US tax season, and processing times may extend to the upper end of the 2–4 week range due to increased IRS staff workload. Read the complete guide on how to apply for an EIN as a non-resident.

Tip: Use an online fax service if you do not have access to a traditional fax machine. Services like eFax, HelloFax, and FaxZero allow you to send faxes via email or web upload. Some services offer free trials or pay-per-page faxing with no subscription required.

WyomingLLC.co handles your EIN application by fax so you get your EIN in 2–4 weeks. $297 flat fee includes LLC formation and EIN.

Start on WhatsApp — Free

EIN by Mail — 4–6 Weeks

The IRS accepts EIN applications by mail for applicants who cannot use the online system or fax method. Mail processing takes 4–6 weeks from the date the IRS receives your Form SS-4. This timeline includes postal delivery time to and from the IRS processing center.

How to Apply for an EIN by Mail

  1. Download and complete Form SS-4
  2. Write "Foreign" in the SSN/ITIN field (Line 7b)
  3. Mail to: Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999
  4. Wait 4–6 weeks for the CP 575 confirmation letter

Why Mail Is Slower Than Fax

Mail applications take longer because of postal delivery time in both directions. International mail to the US can take 1–2 weeks. The IRS processes the application in 2–3 weeks. Return mail from the US to your country takes another 1–2 weeks. Total time: 4–6 weeks or longer depending on postal service efficiency.

Fax applications avoid postal delays entirely. The IRS receives your faxed Form SS-4 immediately and can return the EIN confirmation by fax (instant) or by mail (if you prefer a hard copy). For most international applicants, fax is the faster and more reliable choice.

When to Use Mail Instead of Fax

Use the mail method if:

  • You have no access to fax services and online fax options are unavailable in your country
  • You are not in a rush and can wait 4–6 weeks for the EIN
  • You prefer to send original documents by postal mail

Most applicants choose fax over mail because of the faster processing time and immediate confirmation delivery. Mail is a fallback option for applicants without fax access.

What Affects EIN Processing Time

Several factors influence how long it takes to receive your EIN. Understanding these factors helps you avoid delays and set realistic expectations for your application timeline.

Time of Year (Tax Season Backlog)

The IRS processes millions of tax returns between January and April (US tax season). During this period, IRS staff prioritize tax return processing over EIN applications. Fax processing times may extend to 3–4 weeks during peak tax season instead of the typical 2–3 weeks. Plan accordingly if you apply for an EIN between January and mid-April.

Errors on Form SS-4

Incomplete or incorrect Form SS-4 submissions are rejected by the IRS. Common errors include:

  • Leaving required fields blank
  • Entering an invalid entity type
  • Providing inconsistent information (entity name not matching state filing)
  • Illegible handwriting or poor fax quality
  • Using an incorrect IRS form (using an outdated SS-4 version)

When the IRS rejects an application, they mail a rejection notice explaining the issue. You must correct the error and resubmit Form SS-4. This restarts the processing clock, adding another 2–4 weeks to your timeline. Submitting an accurate, complete application the first time prevents rejection delays. Learn more about what an EIN is and how it differs from a Tax ID.

Missing Information

The IRS requires specific information on Form SS-4. Missing details delay processing or cause rejection. Key information includes:

  • Legal name of the entity (must match Articles of Organization)
  • Trade name or DBA (if applicable)
  • Responsible party name and address
  • Entity type (LLC, corporation, partnership, etc.)
  • Reason for applying (started new business, hired employees, etc.)
  • Date business started or acquired
  • Principal activity and product/service

IRS Staffing and Backlogs

IRS processing capacity fluctuates based on staffing levels, budget constraints, and workload volume. During periods of high application volume or reduced staffing, processing times may extend beyond typical estimates. The IRS does not provide real-time processing time updates, so applicants should plan for the upper end of the estimated timeline (4 weeks for fax, 6 weeks for mail).

Important: Do not submit multiple EIN applications for the same LLC. Duplicate applications create processing confusion and delay both applications. If you submitted an application and have not received confirmation after 4 weeks, call the IRS to check status before resubmitting.

What to Do While Waiting for Your EIN

The 2–4 week wait for your EIN does not stop all business progress. Your Wyoming LLC is legally formed the moment the Secretary of State approves your Articles of Organization. You can begin many business activities while waiting for the EIN to arrive.

Your LLC Is Already Formed

An EIN is not required for LLC formation. The LLC exists and has legal standing once the Wyoming Secretary of State files your Articles of Organization. You can:

  • Sign contracts using your LLC name
  • Accept client agreements and proposals
  • Draft your operating agreement
  • Register your domain name and build your website
  • Create business email addresses
  • Set up your accounting system and invoicing software

Start Your Bank Account Application

Most fintech banks (Mercury, Relay, Wise) allow you to begin the business bank account application before receiving your EIN. You can complete the initial application steps, upload your formation documents, and verify your identity. The bank application will pend at the final stage until you provide the EIN. Once your EIN arrives, you submit it to complete the application and activate your account. This approach saves time compared to waiting for the EIN before starting the bank application process.

What You Cannot Do Without an EIN

The following activities specifically require an EIN:

  • Open a business bank account: All banks require an EIN to complete account activation. You can start the application but cannot finalize it until you have the EIN.
  • Register for Stripe: Stripe requires an EIN to verify business identity and enable payment processing.
  • File tax returns: Form 5472 and other IRS filings require the LLC's EIN.
  • Hire contractors and issue 1099s: You need an EIN to report contractor payments to the IRS.
  • Apply for business credit: Business credit cards and lines of credit require an EIN.

Prepare Your Business Infrastructure

Use the waiting period to build your business foundation:

  • Create your business website
  • Write service agreements and client contracts
  • Set up project management and CRM tools
  • Design marketing materials and social media presence
  • Research and plan your product or service launch
  • Connect with potential clients and build your network

The 2–4 week EIN wait is an opportunity to prepare your business operations. When your EIN arrives, you can immediately open your bank account, register for Stripe, and start processing payments.

How to Check Your EIN Status

The IRS does not provide an online tracking system for EIN applications. You cannot check EIN application status on the IRS website. The only way to check your EIN status is to call the IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line.

IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line

Call the IRS at:

  • US callers: 1-800-829-4933
  • International callers: +1-267-941-1099

Hours of operation: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Eastern Time (closed on federal holidays).

When to Call About Your EIN

The IRS recommends waiting at least 4 weeks after faxing or 6 weeks after mailing your Form SS-4 before calling to check status. Calling earlier will not speed up processing, and IRS representatives cannot provide updates on applications still within the standard processing window.

Call if:

  • 4 weeks have passed since you faxed Form SS-4
  • 6 weeks have passed since you mailed Form SS-4
  • You received a rejection notice and need clarification
  • You need to verify that the IRS received your application

What to Say When You Call

When you reach an IRS representative, provide the following information:

  • Your name (responsible party listed on Form SS-4)
  • Your LLC's legal name
  • The date you faxed or mailed Form SS-4
  • The reason for applying (new business, LLC formation)
  • Your callback number and best time to reach you

The representative will search the IRS system for your application. If your application is still processing, they will confirm receipt and estimated completion date. If your EIN has been assigned, they can provide the EIN over the phone immediately.

Expect Long Wait Times

The IRS Business and Specialty Tax Line has high call volume, especially during tax season (January–April). Wait times of 30–60 minutes or longer are common. Consider calling early in the morning (7:00 AM Eastern) or later in the afternoon (after 4:00 PM Eastern) for shorter hold times. Have your Form SS-4 copy ready while you wait so you can reference specific details when you reach a representative.

Tip: If your EIN has been assigned but you have not received the CP 575 confirmation letter, the IRS representative can mail or fax a duplicate confirmation immediately. This is faster than waiting for the original letter if it was lost in the mail or never sent.

WyomingLLC.co handles EIN applications and tracks status for you. $297 flat fee includes LLC formation, EIN by fax, and EIN confirmation delivery.

Start on WhatsApp — Free

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get an EIN online?

EIN applications submitted online through the IRS website are processed instantly — you receive your EIN immediately after completing the online form. However, online EIN applications are only available to applicants who have a US Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN.

How long does an EIN take by fax?

EIN applications submitted by fax to the IRS typically take 2–4 weeks to process. This is the required method for non-US residents without an SSN. The IRS international fax number is +1-267-941-1099.

How long does an EIN take by mail?

Mail EIN applications typically take 4–6 weeks. This is slower than fax and is generally not recommended for international applicants who want their EIN as quickly as possible.

Can I check my EIN application status?

The IRS does not provide an online tracking system for EIN applications. You can call the IRS Business & Specialty Tax Line at 1-800-829-4933 to check on your application status, but wait times are often long. If you applied by fax, the IRS recommends waiting at least 4 weeks before calling.