{"id":3287,"date":"2026-07-03T07:49:51","date_gmt":"2026-07-03T07:49:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/?p=3287"},"modified":"2026-07-03T07:49:51","modified_gmt":"2026-07-03T07:49:51","slug":"itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/","title":{"rendered":"ITIN vs EIN 2026: What International Founders Need to Open a US Bank Account and File Taxes"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#What_Is_an_ITIN\" >What Is an ITIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#What_Is_an_EIN\" >What Is an EIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#ITIN_vs_EIN_2026_Key_Differences\" >ITIN vs EIN 2026: Key Differences<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Do_International_Founders_Need_an_ITIN\" >Do International Founders Need an ITIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#When_Do_You_Need_an_EIN\" >When Do You Need an EIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Can_You_Open_a_US_Bank_Account_with_Only_an_EIN\" >Can You Open a US Bank Account with Only an EIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Do_You_Need_an_ITIN_to_Get_an_EIN\" >Do You Need an ITIN to Get an EIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#ITIN_vs_EIN_2026_for_LLC_Owners\" >ITIN vs EIN 2026 for LLC Owners<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#How_to_Apply_for_an_EIN_in_2026\" >How to Apply for an EIN in 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#How_to_Apply_for_an_ITIN\" >How to Apply for an ITIN<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Common_Mistakes_International_Founders_Make\" >Common Mistakes International Founders Make<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Delaying_Formation_until_You_Have_an_ITIN\" >Delaying Formation until You Have an ITIN<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Using_Your_Social_Security_Number_Instead_of_EIN\" >Using Your Social Security Number Instead of EIN<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Failing_to_File_Tax_Returns_on_Time\" >Failing to File Tax Returns on Time<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Picking_the_Incorrect_Legal_Entity\" >Picking the Incorrect Legal Entity<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Which_One_Do_You_Actually_Need\" >Which One Do You Actually Need?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Benefits_of_Getting_an_EIN_Early\" >Benefits of Getting an EIN Early<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Ready_to_Start_Your_US_Business\" >Ready to Start Your US Business?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Can_I_get_EIN_without_SSN\" >Can I get EIN without SSN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Is_ITIN_necessary_for_foreign_LLCs\" >Is ITIN necessary for foreign LLCs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Can_I_apply_ITIN_instead_of_EIN\" >Can I apply ITIN instead of EIN?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Which_document_is_more_important_to_open_a_business_bank_account_in_the_USA\" >Which document is more important to open a business bank account in the USA?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#Can_foreigners_form_a_US_LLC\" >Can foreigners form a US LLC?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span><b>Introduction<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It has been a very exciting journey for the entrepreneurs all around the world to start their own business in the United States. Be it a SaaS startup, eCommerce business, consultancy firm or even a tech company, getting to know about the US Tax ID numbers is one of the important requirements that needs to be fulfilled.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the first things that an international entrepreneur would want to know is the difference between ITIN vs EIN 2026 &#8211; Which one do I need? Well, though both of these numbers are issued by the IRS, they have nothing to do with each other. Selecting either one of them incorrectly can result in a delayed process of business incorporation, opening a bank account, filing the taxes, and making payments.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is your guide on ITIN vs EIN 2026 &#8211; Differences and when to use what.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_an_ITIN\"><\/span><b>What Is an ITIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax-processing number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service to individuals who do not qualify for a US Social Security Number (SSN).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The primary purpose of this identification number is to serve individuals who have US tax responsibilities but do not qualify for SSN.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some common cases include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Non-resident business owner<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Investors from abroad<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Freelancers from other countries<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visa holder dependents<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Individuals receiving US-source income<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It should be noted that an ITIN does not give permission for working in the USA.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_an_EIN\"><\/span><b>What Is an EIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Employer_Identification_Number\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employer Identification Number (EIN)<\/a> is a tax identification number issued to organizations by the IRS.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is basically a Social Security Number for your business.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An EIN is necessary for organizations to be able to do the following:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">File their federal taxes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hire employees<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Open US business bank accounts<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get payment processors such as Stripe and PayPal<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create business credit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Register for state taxes when applicable<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most foreign founders creating a US LLC will need an EIN. If you&#8217;re just getting started, our guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/how-to-register-a-us-llc-and-earn-globally\/\">How to Register a US LLC and Earn Globally in 2026<\/a>\u00a0walks through the full formation process.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ITIN_vs_EIN_2026_Key_Differences\"><\/span><b>ITIN vs EIN 2026: Key Differences<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Feature<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>ITIN<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>EIN<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Issued To<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Individual<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Business Entity<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Purpose<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Individual tax filing<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Business identification<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Issued By<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IRS<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IRS<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Used for Business Banking<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually No<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Required for Tax Filing<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Individuals<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Businesses<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can Hire Employees<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Linked to Personal Identity<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The biggest difference is simple:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>An ITIN identifies a person, while an EIN identifies a business.<\/b><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_International_Founders_Need_an_ITIN\"><\/span><b>Do International Founders Need an ITIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not necessarily. There is a common misconception among international entrepreneurs that one has to get an ITIN before establishing their company in the US.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Actually, a foreign entrepreneur may:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create a US LLC<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get an EIN<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Open a business bank account<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Work with Stripe<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Work with Mercury<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Work with Wise Business<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">without obtaining an ITIN beforehand. For a full walkthrough of this process, see Can I <a href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/can-i-open-a-virtual-business-in-the-us-while-living-abroad\/\">Open a Virtual Business in the US while Living Abroad<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An ITIN is typically required if one needs to file US taxes themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_Do_You_Need_an_EIN\"><\/span><b>When Do You Need an EIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are forming a business in the USA, you would most likely require an EIN. This decision often starts with picking the right state to incorporate in, as covered in our guide on<a href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/best-us-states-to-register-a-company-as-a-non-resident-in-2026\/\"> Best US States to Register a Company as a Non-Resident in 2026<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the situations are:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Forming an LLC<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Forming a Corporation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hiring Employees<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submitting Tax Returns<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Banking for the business<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Business Loans<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">US suppliers<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The EIN will act as the main identifying number of your business entity.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_You_Open_a_US_Bank_Account_with_Only_an_EIN\"><\/span><b>Can You Open a US Bank Account with Only an EIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In most cases, yes. Most fintech banks nowadays accept international founders who want to open <a href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/usa-business-bank-account.php\">US business bank accounts<\/a> with the help of:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Company registration papers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">EIN letter confirmation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Passport<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Business proof<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some banks can ask for additional verifications based on where you live.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular banks usually have more stringent requirements and will ask you to come in person. For the full step-by-step process, check out How to <a href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/how-to-open-a-us-bank-account-for-your-llc-from-outside-usa-complete-2026-guide\/\">Open a US Bank Account for Your LLC from Outside USA \u2013 Complete 2026 Guide<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_You_Need_an_ITIN_to_Get_an_EIN\"><\/span><b>Do You Need an ITIN to Get an EIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This statement is absolutely incorrect.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The IRS enables the foreign entity to get an EIN without the following documents being available for the owner of the company:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Social Security Number<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ITIN<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">US residency<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It just requires some other procedure for application.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ITIN_vs_EIN_2026_for_LLC_Owners\"><\/span><b>ITIN vs EIN 2026 for LLC Owners<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What if you&#8217;re a foreign individual owning a US LLC? Well, these will be your general guidelines.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>You Must Get an EIN if:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You own an LLC<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You run a business<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You bill customers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You accept payments<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You file your business taxes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>You Should Get an ITIN if:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You personally file your US taxes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You earn income in the US<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You must report your personal tax obligations<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Foreign individuals owning a single member LLC usually start out with only an EIN.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Apply_for_an_EIN_in_2026\"><\/span><b>How to Apply for an EIN in 2026<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/ein-application-services.php\">EIN Application<\/a> Process is quite simple.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It requires:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Establishing your U.S.-based company.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having all the necessary documents.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Filling out the IRS Form SS-4.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Submitting the application using the right IRS procedure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting your EIN certificate.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Registered agents and incorporation agencies can also help with EIN application.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Apply_for_an_ITIN\"><\/span><b>How to Apply for an ITIN<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An ITIN is typically harder to obtain.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some things you may need include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Form W-7<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Passport<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ID Verification<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tax documentation<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The IRS looks at your application before giving you the ITIN.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Mistakes_International_Founders_Make\"><\/span><b>Common Mistakes International Founders Make<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some of the most frequent mistakes:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Delaying_Formation_until_You_Have_an_ITIN\"><\/span><b>Delaying Formation until You Have an ITIN<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many entrepreneurs delay too much. In most cases, all that is needed is the EIN number.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Using_Your_Social_Security_Number_Instead_of_EIN\"><\/span><b>Using Your Social Security Number Instead of EIN<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The company needs to use its EIN number wherever applicable.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Failing_to_File_Tax_Returns_on_Time\"><\/span><b>Failing to File Tax Returns on Time<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LLCs owned by foreign nationals may be required to file annually with the IRS even without any tax liability.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Picking_the_Incorrect_Legal_Entity\"><\/span><b>Picking the Incorrect Legal Entity<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The choice between LLC, Corp, or other legal entities affects your tax liabilities.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_One_Do_You_Actually_Need\"><\/span><b>Which One Do You Actually Need?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is a basic rule.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The chances are that you will require an EIN if you intend to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set up a business in the US<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Open a business account in a bank<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Receive money<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pay taxes for your business<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is possible that you will need an ITIN yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For many entrepreneurs who come from outside the US, getting an EIN comes first.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits_of_Getting_an_EIN_Early\"><\/span><b>Benefits of Getting an EIN Early<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An EIN can enable you to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get a US business bank account quicker<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Boost your business\u2019s credibility<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Register for payment gateways<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Establish a business credit history<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Comply with the IRS requirements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Differentiate personal and business finances<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><b>Conclusion<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowledge about ITIN vs EIN 2026 is important for an international entrepreneur who wishes to set up his\/her business in the US. It is true that both the numbers are issued by the IRS, but their purpose is quite different. Whereas an EIN is required for your business operations, opening your bank account in the US, and also meeting your US federal tax requirements, an ITIN is required only if you have US tax filing obligations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Therefore, knowing what number you require is important.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ready_to_Start_Your_US_Business\"><\/span><b>Ready to Start Your US Business?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From establishing a US LLC to applying for an EIN or handling taxes as an international entrepreneur, we at <a href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/\">E-Startup<\/a> can make everything easy for you. We will help our clients all over the world set up their US companies in no time, so that they can concentrate on growing their business.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><b>FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_get_EIN_without_SSN\"><\/span><b>Can I get EIN without SSN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, international entrepreneurs can apply for EIN even without a Social Security Number.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_ITIN_necessary_for_foreign_LLCs\"><\/span><b>Is ITIN necessary for foreign LLCs?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, many foreign LLCs do not need an ITIN unless there is a requirement to file taxes in USA.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_apply_ITIN_instead_of_EIN\"><\/span><b>Can I apply ITIN instead of EIN?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, ITIN is assigned to an individual, whereas EIN is assigned to the business.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_document_is_more_important_to_open_a_business_bank_account_in_the_USA\"><\/span><b>Which document is more important to open a business bank account in the USA?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The EIN is the main requirement to open a business bank account in the USA.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_foreigners_form_a_US_LLC\"><\/span><b>Can foreigners form a US LLC?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, non-residents of the USA can form US LLCs in most states.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction It has been a very exciting journey for the entrepreneurs all around the world to start their own business &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"ITIN vs EIN 2026: What International Founders Need to Open a US Bank Account and File Taxes\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/itin-vs-ein-2026-what-international-founders\/#more-3287\" aria-label=\"Read more about ITIN vs EIN 2026: What International Founders Need to Open a US Bank Account and File Taxes\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3288,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[31],"tags":[69,241,242,240,239,238,243,37],"class_list":["post-3287","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-llc","tag-ein","tag-employer-identification-number","tag-individual-taxpayer-identification-number","tag-itin","tag-itin-vs-ein","tag-itin-vs-ein-2026","tag-llc-for-non-residents","tag-us-llc","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3287","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3287"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3287\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3289,"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3287\/revisions\/3289"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3288"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3287"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3287"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/e-startup.io\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3287"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}